Our most frequently asked questions are answered below; but if you still have questions, please contact us.

1. Who are your Guests?

Door of Hope refers to those to whom we provide housing and supportive services as “Guests.” They have transitioned from living on the street to apartment life.

2. How can someone that is homeless get housing through Door of Hope?

Housing available through Door of Hope begins with contacting the Memphis based Community Alliance for the Homeless, Inc. and submitting an application through their website, or by contacting us.

3. What do volunteers do at Door of Hope?

Volunteers work in all aspects of our Programs and Supportive Services that we provide for our Guests. Many of our volunteers join Guests in setting up and eating lunch, while other volunteers lead post-lunch classes in creative writing or contemplative prayer, or go on special outings. Volunteers also accompany people to medical appointments, make hospital visits, or work beside Guest in the garden. Some volunteers choose to build a relationship with one specific Guest and, with the help of our trained staff, help that person reintegrate into the community. Our staff is available to help you find your place among us.

4. What are the time commitments for volunteers?

The tine commitment depends on the volunteer. Some volunteers join us for an hour a week at lunch, others prefer short one-time projects, while still others spend significant time in building a one-on-one relationship with a specific guest.

5. I’ve never been with people who are homeless – how should I act?

Door of Hope volunteers act as they would with a Guest in their house: welcoming and non-judgmental. Our Coordinator of Volunteers provides a training session for new volunteers where questions can be answered, and accompanies the volunteer on the first visit to Door of Hope.

6. How did Door of Hope get started?

Door of Hope grew out of a 2003 ad-hoc movement among several Midtown churches whose members became concerned about the growing numbers of homeless people in their Midtown neighborhood. Following hundreds of hours of research, discussions and planning, a core group of Memphians—including members of area churches and non-profits—took steps to incorporate and launch Door of Hope.

7. What is the mission of Door of Hope?

Door of Hope’s mission it to end homelessness for Memphis’ most vulnerable population by providing housing and supportive services one Door at a time.

8. How do you finance Door of Hope?

Door of Hope is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that is funded by public grants, and donations from businesses and individuals.