Interfaith Hospitality Network - IHN

We are looking for a new coordinator. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Betsy Newman at 610-647-0643 or jvnehn42@aol.com

IHN Main Line Website: http://ihncares.org/


About the Interfaith Hospitality Network
The Interfaith Hospitality Network maintains the mission, "to temporarily house homeless people in a caring environment and support them in accessing community resources including child care, education, transportation and jobs". A network of Main Line community churches and synagogues work together to provide temporary night lodging and meals for homeless women, their children, and families. Through a weekly rotation, a church or synagogue takes the responsibility of creating a home-like environment for approximately five homeless families. The families can stay in the program for up to three months, while they, "set priorities and work on [their] goals for gaining employment, childcare, an apartment, etc." Interfaith Hospitality Network offers access to a social worker as well as a daytime training center where individuals can gain support in finding a job and/or affordable housing. As well, IHN provides transportation from the day center in Norristown to the hosting site in the evening and back in the morning.
Role of the Volunteer
  • Be a mentor.
  • Come help children with homework.
  • Read to children.
  • Provide transportation.
  • Prepare a meal.
  • Interact with a guest.
  • Be a good listener.
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    Volunteers can come to the hosting church or synagogue and assist with setting up the lodging - beds, temporary walls, etc., with preparing or serving meals, as well as simply playing with children and spending time with the families. Volunteers are also needed to stay through the overnight. Two to three volunteers can be accommodated per shift.

    Hosting Congregations
    • Beth David Synagogue, Gladwyne
    • Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church
    • Central Baptist Church, Wayne
    • Church of the Redeemer, Bryn Mawr
    • Our Mother of Good Counsel Church, Bryn Mawr
    • St. Katharine of Sienna, Wayne
    • St. John Neumann Church, Bryn Mawr
    • St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Haverford
    • St. Thomas of Villanova Church, Villanova
    • Wayne Presbyterian Church, Wayne