Providence House is on a mission to break the homeless cycle in Northwest Louisiana one family at a time. The organization opened its doors in 1988 when two members of First Presbyterian Church, Mary Anne Selber and Jean Sayres, recognized a need for shelter services for homeless families with children.
In 2015, Verni Howard brought her corporate and non-profit banking experience to Providence House when she was named Executive Director. Under her leadership, the Child Development Center earned and kept a 4-Star rating, the agency has twice been listed as one of the Best Places to Work in Shreveport-Bossier, and dreams of an in-house calming studio have become reality.
Children are the core factor that separates Providence House from other shelters. Single women, single men, and married couples are housed together with their children where they learn and grow together. They are given the chance to start again, find hope, and gain the independence that they have never had or once lost.
In addition to the necessities of shelter, food, and clothing, residents are provided individualized, comprehensive support services to address the core barriers that led to homelessness. These services include education, workforce development, child care, parenting courses, financial literacy, and more. The ultimate goal is to move each family toward their highest level of self-sufficiency. To date, 655 families have graduated from Providence House!
WORKPLACE CULTURE: Our workplace culture is one of inclusivity and servant leadership. Each department’s insight is sought after, valued and included in our overall service to homeless families and children.
VITALITY: Providence House is making great strides as it relates to education and homelessness prevention. We maintain a 4-STAR childcare facility as well as a full service workforce development program in partnership with BPCC. We have also been fortunate enough to receive homelessness prevention funding (rental and utility assistance) through both the City of Shreveport as well as Caddo Commissioners. We are supporting families and helping them to circumvent homelessness while also helping with job placement.
