Our Legacy

On October 1, 2018, three legacy organizations, Homeless Connections, Housing Partnership of the Fox Cities, and the Fox Valley Warming Shelter, came together to become Pillars, with a goal to increase our impact in the community by providing services that better meet the needs of individuals and families facing homelessness and challenges to maintaining housing.

Homeless Connections had connected individuals and families to resources that promote independence and prevent future episodes of homelessness since 1981. A 78-bed shelter was built in 1997 to better serve the needs of our community. In addition to providing shelter, Homeless Connections provided services focused on street outreach, prevention, diversion and housing.

Founded in 1986, Housing Partnership of the Fox Cities worked to enhance the dignity and independence of families by providing quality, affordable homes and exceptional supportive services. Housing programs were created to serve the unique housing needs of various populations: mothers seeing domestic abuse, individuals who are chronically homeless, young adults, people with disabilities, veterans and others. What started as one home renovated by a group of volunteers grew to serve over 400 individuals annually.

The Fox Valley Warming Shelter, which started as a rotating shelter in 2008, secured a shelter building in 2010.  The shelter welcomed adult men and women experiencing homelessness, and the 55-person capacity shelter grew to serve close to 600 individuals a year.

Today, Pillars provides shelter, support and solutions to address the housing needs in our community through a broad range of both crisis housing and stable housing services.