The House of Faith Ministry is a Non-Profit 501(c)3 corporation approved by the State of New York to operate a 14 bed shelter facility. This is the first, and much needed, shelter in Southern Dutchess County. Their immediate goal is to generate a minimum of $60,000 to cover initial operating expenses for the shelter which is expected to open by February 1, 2008. To contact director Minister Smith, please call 845-831-5695, or email luader6@aol.com. Please send any donations to PO Box 1326, Wappinger Falls, NY 12590. Thank you.

The House of Faith Ministry

(a shelter for victims of domestic violence)

Domestic violence is much more than an individual or family problem: it is a widespread community and societal problem. Increased community accountability and collaboration must become the standard if we are to realize our dream of a future without family violence.

Often families who present themselves to House of Faith Ministry for services have limited funds for necessary legal protection from their abuser and require medical assistance. In light of the above, it is paramount that we recognize a need for coordinating services for victims of domestic violence throughout Dutchess County. For starters, the Turning Point at Saint Francis Hospital - Beacon will be collaborating with HOFM in providing drug related mental and physical abuse remediation for men and women in need.

Having a shelter such as HOFM in Southern Dutchess would allow families to have services more readily available and provide staff to network with other community resources.

HOFM as a domestic violence shelter will have an opportunity to close the ongoing gaps in services in Dutchess County. It is our desire to improve upon the ability of the county to provide shelter to all families who need it.

The House of Faith Ministry, Inc will work toward providing crisis intervention and safety provision for battered women and their family, and elder abuse. We hope lives will be vastly improved and/or saved by the existence of this program. That achievement will replace hopelessness and broken lives, will heal and mend.

Minister Luader Smith
Executive Director, HOFM