CHURCHES UNITED FOR THE HOMELESS

Churches United for the Homeless is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing essential services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Established in 1987 by eleven local faith communities, the organization has grown to include over 100 supporting faith groups.

This growth reflects a strong community commitment to addressing homelessness and related challenges.

Mission and Services

The organization's mission centers on offering Safe Shelter, Stable Housing, Nutritious Food, and a Path Toward Healing. These core services meet the immediate needs of guests while fostering long-term stability and well-being.

• Safe Shelter: Micah’s Mission provides emergency shelter to men, women, families, and veterans in the Fargo-Moorhead area. The facility includes on-site case management, shelter nursing, a community center, and hot meals served twice daily.
• Stable Housing: Bright Sky Apartments offers permanent supportive housing to formerly homeless families, providing a stable living environment that supports long-term success and independence.
• Nutritious Food: The Dorothy Day Food Pantry operates locations in Moorhead and West Fargo, supplying essential food items to individuals and families in need. These pantries are vital resources for combating food insecurity in the community.
• A Path Toward Healing: Comprehensive case management services assist guests in addressing physical, emotional, mental, and financial challenges. Through personalized support, individuals are empowered to achieve self-sufficiency and improved quality of life.

Community Engagement and Support

Churches United actively engages with the community through various volunteer opportunities and events. Local organizations, such as First Lutheran Church, collaborate with the shelter to prepare and serve meals, pack bag lunches, and support fundraising efforts.

These partnerships are crucial in sustaining the organization's operations and expanding its impact.

Locations

The organization operates multiple facilities across the Fargo-Moorhead area:

• Micah’s Mission: 1901 1st Ave N, Moorhead, MN 56560
• Dorothy Day House: 714 8th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560
• Dorothy Day Food Pantry: 1308 Main Ave, Moorhead, MN 56560
• Dorothy Day Food Pantry West: 45 21st Ave E, Suite A, West Fargo, ND 58078
• Bright Sky Apartments: 3308 3rd Ave NW, Moorhead, MN 56560
• Fargo, ND, USA

Recent Challenges and Community Response

In recent years, Churches United has faced financial challenges that threatened the continuation of its services. In August 2024, the organization urgently sought community support to prevent closure, emphasizing the critical role of donations in sustaining operations.

The community's response has been instrumental in maintaining the organization's mission, highlighting the collective commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.

Through its comprehensive services and strong community partnerships, Churches United for the Homeless continues to be a vital resource, offering hope and assistance to those in need in the Fargo-Moorhead area.