BEND, OR – To help address the urgent, complex needs of people experiencing homelessness in Central Oregon, Shepherd’s House Ministries has been awarded a multi-million-dollar gift to expand its services for women and children. The Federal Home Loan Bank has awarded the organization $3 million to go toward the expansion of Abi’s House.

According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, more than one-third of the homeless population in Oregon is women. Abi’s House currently accommodates up to 10 women and children. It provides comprehensive support and trauma-informed space for women overcoming addiction, abuse, and chronic instability. Currently, many women are turned away due to limited space.

The Federal Home Loan Bank gift will provide a pathway to healing for even more women and children. The contribution is a key part of the purchase of additional residences near Abi’s House, allowing Shepherd’s House to triple the number of clients it can serve. Once complete, this will create a network of homes that fosters connection, dignity, and empowerment for women.  Shepherd’s House would like to thank Summit Bank for its partnership and for facilitating funding of the Federal Home Loan Bank award. “Supporting efforts like this are one of the most meaningful parts of what we do at Summit Bank. We are proud to partner in bringing Federal Home Loan Bank grant funding into our communities and to support organizations that are making a real difference in people’s lives every day. This kind of investment helps strengthen the places we call home, and we are honored to be a part of it,”— Gary O’Connell, Central Oregon Market President, Summit Bank.

“This project represents what’s possible when community partners come together to address homelessness and promote long-term stability for people with compassion and intention,” said Gina Stout, CEO of Shepherd’s House Ministries. “It will allow us to say ‘yes’ to women and children who too often hear ‘there’s no room. By expanding Abi’s House, we’re creating more than just shelter.  We are creating safe, healing spaces where women can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”

Shepherd’s House Ministries serves hundreds of people each year through mobile outreach, meals, shelter, and comprehensive case management, creating pathways to healing for Oregon’s most vulnerable population.

For more information about Abi’s House or Shepherd’s House Ministries, please contact the Shepherd’s House Ministries Development Office, 541.388.2096.