Because of the increasing number of families in need and the desire to invite all individuals and businesses to partner in the good work of helping, the Emmaus Ecumenical Ministerium has transitioned this homelessness initiative into a new non-religious charitable non-profit 501(c)3, East Penn Neighbors Helping Neighbors. The Emmaus Ministerium continues to function as representation of the churches of Emmaus, and is now working to build stronger partnerships in the East Penn School district.
During our 27+ months of operation, we have seen the successful transition of three families from homelessness into places of sustainability. We are in the process of gaining an agreement to rent a four-bedroom home. If we are successful, the contract will be signed in August. Our goal is to place the fourth family in a home by October 2015.
Three committees are being formed to support families: Case Management, Property, and Fund Raising/Public Relations. Volunteers are also needed to provide basic services including (but not limited to) the transportation of family members, providing one-time/infrequent child-care, moving furniture to and from the EPNHN housing space (often on short notice), assisting a family with grocery shopping and meal planning, or assisting a family with searching for affordable housing. Additional volunteer opportunities are outlined on the EPNHN website.
We have estimated it will cost between $20,000 and $25,000 to provide housing to a family for a 12-month period. Those who wish to financially support can donate via www.EPNHN.org or can be mailed to EPNHN, 418 Elm St., Emmaus, PA 18049. All charitable donations to the EPNHN are tax-deductible and all donors will be provided with a statement for tax purposes.
All those who have questions about EPNHN or desire to become a registered Volunteer with the EPNHN should visit the EPNHN website www.EPNHN.org or email EPNHN1@gmail.com or talk with me. We hope you’ll join us in this invaluable initiative of caring.