History
Who Made It Happen:
House of Healing evolved from the efforts of a group of community volunteers concerned about the detrimental effects of incarceration on children whose mothers were in prison. This group was called together by Judge George Levin who had a vision of a creative alternative to prison for the increasing number of single mothers who were coming before him in the courtroom. He wanted a program where families could stay together. In 1996, the first Board of Directors was established.
Benedictine Sister Stephanie Schmidt was a member of the task force that laid the groundwork for House of Healing, and in 1997 she was named the first director. In February 1998 the House of Healing, located at 550 West 7th street, opened its doors to the first resident.
In February 2001, House of Healing moved to a bigger residence located at 146 West 25th Street. This new home has seven bedrooms and makes it possible for us to welcome seven families at a time.
Local community support is a mainstay of our agency. Major repair, renovation and maintenance projects are often undertaken as in-kind donations by local companies and organizations. The financial support of the Erie community makes it possible for House of Healing to continue to offer healing and hope.
