Homeward Bound, Inc.

Homeward Bound, Inc. is in its third decade of helping families get a new start. Through our staff, our volunteers, our financial supporters, we have been able to not only provide homeless families a place to stay but a chance to make lasting changes towards a new life. Emmaus House is a safe environment where these changes can begin - followed up by support staff who continue to help families as they move forward on their own. All of this would not be possible without the support of many groups and individuals:

The center of our efforts is always the people we serve. We offer a variety of programs for those in need of shelter, a safe space, food, and support. Emmaus House is our facility where we can house families on a temporary basis while the situation is evaluated and planning and education can take place. Please read more about our services and our House elsewhere on the site. Then check out "How to Help" to see what you can do to help us help others.

Homeward Bound, Inc., receives government support from federal sources, the State of Delaware, New Castle County, and the City of Newark. However, over half our funding comes from private sources. One large source of funding comes through the United Way of Delaware through designations and allocations. These larger, more public efforts, are augmented by the many special donations we receive from churches, businesses, foundations, and individuals who believe in what we do. We are grateful for every effort - large and small! Please see the annual report.

One of our greatest assets is our relationship with students of the University of Delaware. More than half of our volunteers are students who are interested in giving something back to their school community. They staff the house overnight, provide child care, help with mailings and conduct fund raising events and food drives. Through their example, they also help us send a message to our residents about the importance of self sufficiency and life-long learning.

On a smaller but no less important scale are our individual volunteers. They help us with projects around Emmaus House, transportation, and mentoring. United Way of Delaware Days of Caring volunteers conduct drives for food, umbrellas, alarm clock, Halloween costumes, school supplies and much more. We would be unable to achieve the high standard of service we provide without the tireless efforts of our volunteers. Thank you!