Homes of Hope began as a discussion among pastors of the Manheim district. Faced with homelessness in their community, they asked themselves, "How can the Church make a difference?" Under the leadership of Reverend Don Zechman, the Manheim Housing Assistance Committee was formed. They started with a specially designed modular cabin set up in the parking lot of a local real-estate agency at no cost. Within a short period of time, the committee purchased a second property.
Soon after transferring to the Donegal area, Reverend Zechman helped establish the Mount Joy Housing Assistance Committee modeled after the successful Manheim program. Lancaster Interfaith Housing Coalition served as the umbrella organization for both programs and Love INC served as the single point of entry where needs could be referred. In 2004, Love INC became the new umbrella for the program that would now be known as Homes of Hope - Transitional Housing. The Love INC Board and staff committed to providing oversight to the existing committees and to developing the program in other parts of the county.
Today, there are 8 active communities operating 16 homes. Partner churches provide financial and volunteer support for the homes and some have even provided the property itself. Additionally, Homes of Hope works in partnership with local schools, community resources, and agency partners including Tabor Community Services and Bridge of Hope to provide a holistic response that strives to break the cycle of homelessness.
Due to the economic downturn after 9-11, homelessness in America reached proportions not seen in many decades. The loss of jobs combined with the rising cost of living created the need for housing for homeless families in southern Ohio. In 2010 Love INC of Chillicothe, OH decided to implement a transitional housing program for homeless families. Homes of Hope was established and the first family moved into the first Homes of Hope in May, 2010.
