About Us
Our Philosophy is “A Hand Up, not a HandOUT.” As a private, nonprofit organization, Homeless Solutions has been helping the homeless and working poor in our community since 1983. We are unique in what we do. It’s not just about providing a healthy meal and a place to sleep. Our goal is to give those we serve the tools and surroundings they need to rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient. What sets our nonprofit apart from others is our Continuum of Housing options, including our Main Shelter, Transitional Housing Program (THP) for families, Mt. Kemble Home for senior women, Warming Center for street homeless in the winter, Promising Solutions campus for single women in shared housing, and the 126 Affordable Rental Housing units we own and operate.
Our History
In 1983 religious and business leaders decided that in their community, all people should have shelter from the cold and food for the day. In May of 1983, Morris Shelter, Inc. was created as a private, not-for-profit, tax-exempt community benefit organization.
After some renovations, Morris Shelter opened its doors at this new site in March of 1987, and with the help of volunteers and staff, the Shelter was able to provide 45 shelter beds, meals, clothing, and supportive services.
Expansion
We have a robust history and continue to grow and expand our programs to serve the homeless in our community.
HERE IS AN OVERVIEW OF OUR GROWTH OVER THE YEARS...
Family Shelter Program (1994)
The Family Shelter Program, which now includes Case Management services, was expanded to the second floor of the shelter after the space was renovated. In 1995, educational services through the GED/Adult Basic course and a Life Skills Course were offered on-site.
The Safe Haven Program (1995)
The Safe Haven Program was started to help the homeless with a mental health diagnosis. This program continues to be a joint effort with the Mental Health Association of Morris County.
Transitional Housing Program (1996)
The Transitional Housing Program (THP) provides ten apartments for working families. Case Management services and referral services are offered to the THP residents so employment and income goals are met, life skills are acquired, and savings goals for placement into independent housing are achieved.
Housing Development (1999)
We expanded our mission to address the lack of low-income housing and created our Housing Development division to increase the supply of housing for low- and moderate-income people.
This expansion led to our new name, Homeless Solutions, Inc. (HSI), and strengthened our commitment to completing the continuum of care for the homeless from shelter to independent housing.
We continue to expand, improve, and innovate the services we offer to our neighbors in need. Our Shelter now encompasses 85 beds in addition to the Overnight Center. Other programs include:
Family Supportive Housing Program (2005)
Mount Kemble Home (2013)
Overnight Center (2018)
Women's Campus (2020)
Next Level Shelter Expansion (2021)
We are proud to be the largest provider of homeless services in Morris County