Homelessness can seem to be an overwhelming problem.  Many people wonder what one person or one’s congregation can do to truly make a difference. Over a year ago, many churches were contracted regarding this new program to help homeless families in the Rochester area. It features housing these families in a network of our congregations' buildings. This program already exists successfully in 100 communities across the U.S.

The Interfaith Hospitality Network provides a way for religious congregations to work together to help homeless families.  Each congregation participating in the Network provides overnight lodging and meals for three to five families (up to fourteen people) for one week every four months on a rotating basis.  Homeless families, or guests, stay at the church or synagogue from 6:00 p.m. to 7 :00 a.m. daily.  Each morning, guests are taken by a van to a day center where they meet with the Network director, care for the preschool children, look for housing and employment, or go out to school or work.

The Interfaith Hospitality Network enables religious congregations to meet important basic need of homeless families, who represent the fastest growing segment of the homeless population.  Usually, more than half the guests in the Network are children, and most of the children are less than five years old.  Nationally, more than 2,000 congregations participate in Interfaith Hospitality Networks - where many thousands of volunteers help families regain their independence.

Volunteers are the foundation of the Network.  There are many ways that you can help.  As a volunteer, whether you prepare a hot meal, read to or tutor a child, help a parent write a resume, or stay overnight with guests, you will make a difference in the lives of families that have suffered the loss of their homes.

The Interfaith Hospitality Network fits in very well with our Mission Statement.  Our congregation is exploring ways we can participate in this important ministry.  The options are being a host church (actually housing the guests), or being a support church (providing volunteers to a host church).  Think about this prayerfully and be alert to more information through the Scroll, Sunday bulletins, Forums, or bulletin boards.

The RAIHN (Rochester Area Interfaith Network) is formally organized:

1. Incorporated with New York State;
2. Board of Directors formed;
3. 501c3 status (not-for-profit) letter received from IRS;
4. Fund-raising /Development Consultant hired;
5. Pro bono bookkeeper and marketing and strategy consultant secured;

A day center where families will stay during the day has been secured, and a van has been ordered. Interviews for a Director are underway. Anticipated start up is January 2004. Congregations are not mandated to provide any money except what is necessary when the families are hosted for that week four times a year.

RAIHN launched on April 25, 2004, at Bethel Full Gospel Church.

Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network