Compassion Ministries

Compassion Ministries was founded in 1994 by a few local citizens to share resources with those less fortunate in the community. In 2000 Compassion Ministries began their homeless transitional program. With a growing homeless population, Compassion Ministries expanded their facilities and opened Hope House in 2002. It remains the only transitional homeless shelter in Central Texas and serves an average of 50 families/individuals a year. Approximately 100 children ranging from infant to age 17 pass through the Compassion Ministries transitional program each year. From its beginning in 2000 the percentage of residents who returned to sustained independent living has risen from 30 percent to nearly 50 percent today.

Hope House allows individuals or families to stay in the program for a maximum of 6 months while they obtain employment and save enough money to once again live independently. There are 12 apartments for families and 2 apartments to house up to eight single females. To be in the Compassion program residents must be alcohol and drug free and work closely with assigned Compassion caseworkers. They must obtain full-time employment within the first 30 days in the program. Of their salary 15 percent goes to rent and 15 percent toward savings to help them obtain permanent housing upon completion of the program. Residents must attend weekly counseling session provided by volunteers in budget and employment skills.

In addition to the transitional homeless shelter, Compassion Ministries provides outreach in the form of food, clothing, and hygiene items to anyone who comes to their door. These services are possible through donations of individuals, civic, or religious organizations. Volunteers also help by donating their time to assist in many of the functions and programs.