A Brief History of HONOR
1972
A group of passionate citizens formed the Emergency Housing Committee to research the problem of homelessness and explore solutions.
1974
The first shelter located in a rented house on Academy Ave opened providing refuge to 7 people per night.
1976
The Emergency Housing Group was incorporated.
1979
The shelter closed its doors but the board strived toward the goal of reopening.
1983
The shelter reopened operating out of a building on the campus of Middletown Psychiatric Center.
1985
The Middletown Alcohol Crisis Center opened.
1989
A Case Management program was developed in order to help reduce the relapse.
1992
A Friend’s House opened its doors, becoming the only runaway and homeless youth shelter for youth 17 and younger in the county.
1994
Opened the doors of a newly renovated facility at Wallach Hall a larger building on the MPC Campus in order to accommodate more guests.
1997
HONOR Industries, a vocational program was initiated.
1998
A HUD Grant was secured that would pave the way for a permanent residence for those with disabilities.
2003
The doors opened on the Stephen Saunders residence.
2006
Providing help for our guests to learn to cope more effectively so that they won’t need us again was solidified through our case management program. In doing so we became the only agency in New York State which operates in this fashion.
2007
An increase in the number of homeless on the streets of Middletown fueled the need for an outreach program to be developed.
2008
Critical response is made available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to serve people in need of housing, food, fuel and other basic emergency needs.
2008
Officially became HONOR, an acronym for Helping Others Needing Our Resources, a name that more accurately reflects our mission while reminding all that it is an honor to serve our guests who by their courage and risk deserve to be served.