The Emergency Shelter opened its doors in 1985 in the form of a makeshift Shelter in the basement of the First Congregational Church in Stamford. By March of 1985 the fledgling shelter was serving some 60 people per night.
In the ensuing years, homelessness continued to grow and become increasingly undeniable. But it was that small oasis of warmth and safety from the cold and deadly nights in the basement of Stamford’s First Congregational Church that began a concerted community effort to address homelessness in the Greater Stamford area.
Patricia C. Phillips of Stamford was a founder of Shelter for the Homeless, and in gratitude of her vision and generosity, a re-dedication ceremony was held in June 2013 to honor her many years of dedication.
Berkeley House will now display a plaque that signifies Pat's committment to helping her community!
Berkeley House offers clients independent living with supportive services.
1985
By March of 1985, under the sponsorship of The Council of Churches and Synagogues, the Shelter was serving 60 people a night. In July of 1985 a Board of Directors was formed and Shelter for the Homeless became an independent nonprofit service agency. The Shelter began offering overnight emergency shelter, showers, and limited case management services.
1988
In 1988 the Board of Directors successfully raised over $2MM to purchase and renovate the building at 597 Pacific Street which was to become “Pacific House.”
1989
Construction of Pacific House begins
1990
Pacific House opens its doors thanks to a dedicated Board and caring and committed community members.
1995
On-site health care program is launched
1996
Recovery program is formalized and launched
Berkeley House is acquired (Supportive Housing)
1999
Berkeley House opens (Supportive Housing)
2004
Stone Street property acquired (supportive housing)
2005
First gala event is held
2008
Meal-a-Month program launches
Stone Street property opens (supportive housing)
2012
Ann Street property acquired (supportive housing)
Adopt-a-Day program launches