In a recent head count, the Burke County Homeless Continuum of Care Committee counted 148 homeless people in our county in a two hour window.  Many more remain uncounted, living in their cars, in garages, in other places unfit for human habitation or move from place to place, staying intermittently with friends and families.

According to the News Herald, there are no beds available for emergency, short term assistance in Burke County. There are, however, about 20 beds available for long term assistance in specialized programs.  But, unfortunately, there are waiting lists for those 20 beds which the News Herald declares is simply not enough.

With 7 years of experience with the largest homeless shelter in New Orleans, Rev. Collins and the board of directors formed Refuge Ministries to specifically address these conditions.

 The House of Refuge Ministries serves the homeless and those who are at risk of homelessness in Burke County, North Carolina.  We are a grass roots, non-denominational organization and are not associated with a particular sect or denomination. 

The House of Refuge ministries works cooperatively with area churches and organizations in our county to provide immediate short-term assistance, as well as a wide range of support services to assist individuals and families in achieving permanent housing and achieving their highest level of self-sufficiency.

The House of Refuge Ministries offices are located at 407 South Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655.  There is no housing available at this location.  Emergency housing is provided by referrals from area churches and organizations only.