The House of Hospitality is a Ministry of the Sisters of St. Joesph, Lochinvar.
Sister Carmel Hanson rsj is the House Co Ordinator.
The House is an accommodation unit for people who find themselves homeless or in unsuitable accommodation and in 2021 celebrated 30 years of Ministry. Over 1230 adults and children have sought shelter in the House during this time.
The House of Hospitality aims to assist people in regaining confidence, taking control of their lives, making choices and moving towards independent living. However, it is not a crisis unit.
Priority is given to:
• women who have completed a detoxification programme
• women who are homeless due to marriage breakdown or eviction
• mothers with children who do not meet the domestic violence criteria of the Women's Refuge Movement
• asylum seekers are welcome
The concept of the House is one of community living. The people who choose to live at the House of Hospitality are expected to support and encourage each other.
Residents are encouraged to join a day program or become involved in job skill programs, voluntary work, or attend local playgroups with their children. The house is a drug and alcohol-free zone. Residents can stay at the House for up to 3 months and, with their Case Worker, seek employment and rental accommodation during their stay.
The House is the chosen ministry of a faith community - committed to working for a just society. This faith community meets fortnightly to pray together, take action on social justice issues and evaluate the ministry of the House. The House is not government funded. All residents contribute to the financial and physical running of the house.
