Second Presbyterian Church supports Assisi

Second Presbyterian Church supports the Assisi House, a convent for homeless people in St. Louis.

The church’s website mentioned that they partnered with St. Louis Winter Outreach to join in their initiatives to care for the unhouse individuals in a small communal setting in 2014. They added that they treat each person with dignity and respect in this place.

They highlighted Matthew Desmond's saying in his book Evicted, “Housing is a fundamental need- without shelter, everything else falls apart.”

Assisi Houses

The same website emphasized that this initiative expanded and opened six houses called Assisi Houses yearly.

They explained that, at first, it served as a shelter wherein individuals could leave their belongings and enjoy a hot meal and bed to return to each night throughout the winter season.

On the other hand, it turns into affordable community housing for those who need it every spring, as added on the website.

In addition, the website said that 2PC had been their supporter by giving out blankets and furniture. They also helped in rehabbing facilities that would become Assisi Houses. Also, they provide evening meals once a week throughout the four months of winter.

According to them, they have assisted in the funds for this mission from Webster Groves Presbyterian Church through their Comfort Trust.

Opportunity to Live

The Assisi House website emphasizes that its principle is to give infinite significance to every person. They believe everyone deserves to live in a setting where they can rest from homelessness.

Moreover, they stated that their method in a way that is practical and humane. They pointed out that they refrain from government funding and keep their houses small. Also, they added that they could be very adaptable in dealing with their residents’ needs.

As further noted, the organization supports establishing communities within its houses.

Goals of Assisi House

On the same website, the Assisi House aims to keep individuals secure and warm throughout the winter months from November to March.

They mentioned that they want to make permanent, year-round housing to start a foundation for their residents’ adjustment into permanent housing.

More importantly, Assisi House desires to offer residents meaningful connections and accessible resources. They noted that they want to provide other services to assist people in managing the end of their homelessness.

Non-religious Organization

In another section, Assisi House emphasized that they are not a religious organization. But, they pointed out that their four houses are abandoned convents or rectories, perfect for their purpose.

As added on the website, their most recent house gave the congregational members a chance to serve the homeless population. They stated that they accepted the opportunity wholeheartedly.

Assisi House Model

On another webpage, the Assisi House explained that they offer housing, meals, and monthly bus passes. Also, they said that they provide a section of their residents’ possessions.

According to them, by giving these primary necessities, they could help their residents to deal with the underlying problems that made them homeless.

The website said Assisi House converts small community shelters into permanent, price-friendly housing.