Our History

The Presbyterian Network to End Homelessness inaugural conference was held at Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago March 1-2, 2004. 

The purpose of the conference was two-fold:

1. To initiate and shape a Presbyterian Network to End Homelessness.
2. To explore responses to homelessness in Chicago, particularly efforts to implement the "Housing First" model.

The conference resulted in "Three Quick Decisions"

• Network Membership - Members can be either individuals who are active in homelessness related ministry or advocacy or organizations (including congregations and governing bodies) that focus on homelessness and desire to work in collaboration with the Presbyterian Church (USA).
• Network Structure - the Network will follow the membership organization model, with an annual meeting for business and networking and a board for guiding the organization between annual meetings.
• Membership Commitments - Members will commit to the financial support of the network on a sliding scale similar to PHEWA ($10 low-income, $35 other individuals, $150 congregations/organizations) and the board will pay special attention to making provisions for membership by people who are currently or formerly homeless.