Our History
In 1995, a group of congregations in Eau Claire County collaborated together to support families in our community who were homeless. They did this through a rotating schedule of onsite warming houses in the basements of each congregation. Each week a different host congregation would set up beds for families who were homeless to provide a warm place to sleep. The congregations that supported this system were known as the Eau Claire Interfaith Hospitality Network.
In 1999, the Eau Claire Interfaith Hospitality Network ("ECIHN") looked for a more permanent solution to support homeless families in the community. The property at 309 E Lake Street was purchased and renovated into a shelter equipped to house up to (6) families at a time. This property was named Beacon House, and it became a static site to help those in need in our community.
When Beacon House opened in May 2001, it allowed ECIHN to expand its scope by offering case management services to those staying at the Beacon House. Guests can work towards the goal of obtaining permanent housing without having to worry about when their next meal will be or where they will sleep at night.
In 2010, ECIHN purchased a duplex that now serves as transitional housing for guests of Beacon House. The transitional duplex is a steppingstone for families once they’ve obtained employment and are awaiting permanent housing; it provides a conversion period prior to permanent housing, allowing guests to ease back into the housing community by paying a percentage of their income for rent.
In 2016, ECIHN changed our name to Family Promise of the Chippewa Valley Inc. to better align ourselves with our national affiliate, gaining valuable resources by formally connecting our organization with Family Promise.
Family Promise of the Chippewa Valley truly is a team effort requiring the combined talents of the staff, volunteers, congregations and Board of Directors.
Vision and Mission
Vision
We envision a day when – Every child has a place to call home and an opportunity for a brighter future.
Mission
Family Promise will: Advocate for and support families who are homeless in our community by providing temporary housing and support services, and by fostering independence.