Bethany House

Bethany House of Hospitality first opened on March 27, 1989, and provided temporary shelter for between 12 and 15 people per night. In the first year, Bethany House served 161 men, 87 women, and 52 children. Administered by an ecumenical board of advisors, the house received support and contributions from people of all faiths. Residents were helped by countless volunteers as well as an advocate for the homeless who assisted individuals and families as they transitioned to permanent housing.

In 1998, Bethany House opened a second site, Father Martin Home on Seymour Street, to help with emergency housing needs. The staff also focused on coordinating services so former residents had a better support system after they moved out.

The Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes has supported Bethany House through contributions, sisters’ volunteer efforts, and leadership on the board of advisors.

In 2007, Bethany House merged with FAVR (Friends Aware of Violent Relationships), a domestic abuse shelter established in 1982, to create Solutions Center. Today, Solutions Center provides safety and support to people dealing with homelessness and domestic abuse.

Bethany House of Hospitality. Bethany House of Hospitality: A Shelter for Homeless People [Brochure]. Fond du Lac, WI, n.d.