More than just a place to sleep
Project Hope for the Homeless provides its guests with everything necessary to take the next steps toward self-sufficiency and a place to call home.
PHFTH currently needs help with meal donations. This is a great way for individuals, families and church groups to get involved. Meals can be homemade or purchased. The goal is to feed guests a nice meal at the end of their day. (Photography: Francis Angelone)
Judy Burr has been serving the Painesville community as executive director of Project Hope for the Homeless (PHFTH) since the shelter’s inception in 1993. Through Judy’s dedication and that of many others, along with several location changes, lots of prayer and a little luck, PHFTH now serves about 500 guests each year at its permanent home in Painesville, where 82% of guests transition to a positive outcome within a 30-day stay.
“A ‘positive outcome’ for our guests means transitioning to permanent housing, a treatment program or a group home—whatever is the next-best step that will support wellness and a successful future,” explains Judy. “That is our ultimate goal.”
The community support that surrounds and uplifts PHFTH every day continues to grow.
“We offer much more than a place to sleep,” says community engagement director Sandra Slater.
“Our guests spend their days off-site with transportation provided by LakeTran to places like The Salvation Army, where they receive social services, educational workshops, employment readiness and more.”
Staff and volunteers see every day what people are capable of once their basic needs are met.
“Taking away the stress of where you and your children will eat and sleep is an amazing gift,” says volunteer services director Missy Knight. “Guests are free to look for a job, receive mentoring and build a better future. And none of this would be possible without our volunteers.”
PHFTH currently needs help with meal donations. This is a great way for individuals, families and church groups to get involved. Meals can be homemade or purchased. The goal is to feed guests a nice meal at the end of their day.
Missy says that all meals are made or procured off-site and delivered to the shelter cooked and ready to serve.
“Meal donations are a rewarding opportunity for volunteers to show our guests that someone truly cares,” says Missy. “Many guests haven’t experienced a homemade meal in some time, and to smell the food when they return to the shelter, see a smiling face greeting them, offers a sense of dignity that has been missing for most.”
Below is a brief overview of the programs at PHFTH.
Adult Shelter
Serving men and women by providing shelter, a hot dinner, a light breakfast, a packed lunch, and educational and spiritual support. Trained professional staff provide goal setting and treatment referrals if needed.
Families Moving Forward
Families stay together in a separate wing and receive the services of the adult shelter with extended hours, encouraging routine for families.
Aftercare
Former guests are offered support meetings, care packages, service referrals and general support. Many have become shelter employees, volunteers, board members and community leaders.
Senior Care Hope House
This three-unit transitional housing program for homeless seniors offers free or subsidized shelter services up to 90 days, transport to errands and appointments, and assistance with daily living.
Welcome Home
Guests transitioning to their own housing choose common household items free of charge.
“What it means to Welcome Home guests shows that people care and that is inspiring” says Judy. “They feel seen, accepted and supported.”
PHFTH relies on its community partners and its status as a United Way agency for support, but it’s the volunteers who create the warm environment where trust is built and guests feel empowered to take the next step.
“We are not just offering resources,” says Judy. “We combine that with the support needed, physically, emotionally and spiritually, to build strength and confidence. And God continues to bridge the gaps and provide for us.”
PHFTH volunteers offer their time and talents in so many different ways and week by week witness the transformations in the people they serve.
“Program volunteers offer their professional resources in areas like modeling parenting, tutoring, mental health and finances, helping our guests move forward,” Missy says. “We guarantee that by volunteering at PHFTH you’ll receive so much more than you give.”
For volunteer information, visit the website or call 440-354-6417. Current needs can be found at ProjectHopeForTheHomeless.org/how-to-help/current-needs-list/
Project Hope for the Homeless
25 Freedom Rd., Painesville
A Night of Hope
Join Project Hope for the Homeless staff members and community supporters for an evening of fellowship, food and fun at the annual Night of Hope fundraising event.
When: Friday,
November 6, 2026
Where: St. Noel’s Catholic Church, 35200 Chardon Rd., Willoughby.
Annual Blessing Award recipient and video presentation highlighting the positive impact of PHFTH for guests and the community. Food, activities, auction items and more.
Volunteer Opportuniues
Adult or Family Shelters
Morning and evening time slots available. Set up and distribute meals, spend time with guests, donate food, provide wish-list items.
Some administrative work, such as, preparing mailings or donate professional services including technology, maintenance, financial guidance, haircuts, employment advice, special event volunteers and more.
Visit ProjectHope ForTheHomeless.org for details.
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