Our Houses

dorothy’s house

While studying activist Dorothy Day, a small group of volunteers was inspired to help those experiencing poverty and hardship in Memphis. After learning about the issues that families experiencing houselessness endure, the group decided to open a transitional house specifically designed to serve families.

Their vision came to light when Dorothy’s House opened in May of 2006. While typical shelters appear institutional, Dorothy’s House is modeled like a family home with a large kitchen, dining room, and living room. This unique model encourages parents, kids, staff, and volunteers to form bonds and become a support network for each other.

loretta’s house

Our second house is named in memory of Loretta Garland, a woman who lived in the Dorothy Day House with her teenage son, Trevonne.  They became unhoused because the factory Loretta worked in for 20 years closed with no warning. While at the DDH, Loretta got a new job at FedEx and was just about to move out when she died suddenly of a stroke on April 15, 2013.  Her death touched us deeply.

Loretta represents all those mothers experiencing houselessness who try desperately to keep life together for their children. She became a mother to all in the DDH and was encouraging to all who crossed her path. We will always remember what a blessing she was to us. The bright teal doors at Loretta’s House remind us of her shining light that will never fade.

joseph’s house

Joseph's House was filled with excitement on Sunday, May 19th, 2019 as we gathered to celebrate the beginning of renovation on this third Dorothy Day House. Dozens of people took the opportunity to tour the house and see its current state of disrepair. Signs in the house helped them to imagine where walls will be moved, where bedrooms will be located, and where the layout will be adjusted for the needs of our families.

Much like this house, the families that come to us are in shambles. Often they have no job, no car, no support system, not enough education, only minimal resources and are burdened with hopelessness and depression. We know from experience that we can make life good for them again. It always takes their determination, our work, your support, and some prayer. That combination makes all things possible.

Tour Loretta’s House

Jacqi and Lucy take us on a tour of Loretta’s House!