In a city where thousands of people face homelessness every day, Project HOME has become, over the past 35 years, one of the most influential and committed organizations working to prevent and end homelessness. In a conversation with Donna Bullock, the organization’s president and CEO, she explained Project HOME’s mission, the services they offer, and the real stories that continue to inspire hope throughout the city.

Bullock describes Project HOME as a comprehensive support network designed to accompany people according to their needs. The organization provides permanent and transitional supportive housing, medical care, educational and employment opportunities, as well as training programs and extracurricular activities for youth. It is a holistic response aimed at addressing both the immediate crisis of homelessness and its root causes.

“Our vision is ‘None of us are home until all of us are home,’” Bullock explained. “What affects one of us affects all of us. A home is not just a physical space; it is also a place of peace, support, and community.

Who they serve

Project HOME supports people experiencing homelessness in different situations—from those living chronically on the streets to individuals facing mental or behavioral health challenges, job loss, or the death of a loved one. The organization also helps young people aging out of the foster care system and those without stable housing. “Homelessness takes many forms, but the root of the problem for most people is the lack of accessible housing,” Bullock said. “That’s why we offer different options within our continuum of care, to meet each individual’s reality.”

A story of transformation

Bullock shared the story of Nef, a resident who once lived on the streets of Kensington and rebuilt his life through Project HOME. After receiving transitional housing and accessing educational programs, he now has his own apartment at the Inn of Amazing Mercy, is an artist, and attends classes at the Community College of Philadelphia. His story reflects how access to dignified housing and opportunities can transform life.

How the community can support

From volunteering to donations and simple acts of kindness, there are many ways for the community to get involved. “On our website, projecthome.org, people can find different ways to help. Some volunteer to serve meals, organize activities, or collect essential items like winter coats, hygiene products, or books,” Bullock said.

Project HOME also runs initiatives that provide employment for residents, including its online store and clothing donation programs.

Food insecurity: A growing challenge

When asked about today’s food crisis, particularly during the holiday season—Bullock explained that food insecurity affects thousands of families in Philadelphia, including Project HOME residents. “Each of our residences has a food pantry so residents can access food when needed. We also operate a community pantry that serves more than 200 families weekly,” she said.

She added that cuts to federal benefits like SNAP could worsen the situation. “Food insecurity has long been a problem across neighborhoods, and it may worsen depending on federal policy changes.”

Ongoing challenges in the fight against homelessness

Although passionate about her work, Bullock acknowledges daily challenges, from internal matters to federal cuts that reduce funding and essential benefits. She worries about how these changes could affect residents’ ability to pay rent, access medical care, or simply have enough to eat.

Philly Gives and its importance

Community funds like Philly Gives are essential to keeping programs running and expanding. “Philly Gives is a driving force for projects like ours,” Bullock said, “because it enables organizations like Project HOME to keep building housing, providing services, and responding to emergencies day and night. Initiatives like Philly Gives make it possible to transform lives.”

Project HOME works to break the cycle of homelessness through affordable housing, health services, education, employment, and community outreach. With more than 1,000 units of supportive housing and 24 sites across the city, it offers a nationally recognized integrated model. Its mission is to empower individuals and families under the belief that “none of us are home until all of us are home.” They also help through the hotline 215-232-1984 for people living on the streets.

Project HOME has been selected to participate in this year’s Philly Gives campaign, which will run from November 1 through December 31, 2025. All donations made through phillygives.org will go directly to the 10 selected nonprofit organizations, ensuring that 100% of the funds raised support essential programs.