Orenda House was founded in 2003 with a clear and unwavering purpose: to provide a sober living environment for homeless Veterans who are in all phases of their rehabilitation and recovery. From the very beginning, our mission has been rooted in the belief that Veterans deserve a dignified and supportive space to heal from the unseen scars of military service. Over time, as our team and program grew, so did our understanding of the unique challenges facing those who have served in uniform—challenges that span not only physical well-being but also mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. We recognized early on that many Veterans grapple with issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, substance dependence, and the profound sense of isolation that can arise after leaving the structured environment of the military. In response, Orenda House developed an extensive range of programs designed to help Veterans regain their footing, rediscover their sense of self-worth, and move forward toward a brighter, more stable future.

Central to our mission is the recognition that a sober and stable home environment is the bedrock upon which successful rehabilitation can be built. Without a safe, supportive place to live, it becomes increasingly difficult for Veterans to focus on other aspects of recovery—such as managing mental health conditions, improving physical health, and engaging in meaningful community activities. This understanding shaped our very first initiative, which was to provide transitional housing equipped with essential services and staffed by individuals who understand the Veteran experience. Over time, we have refined our living spaces to create an atmosphere that feels both structured and nurturing, allowing residents to build routines that foster accountability while also encouraging a sense of camaraderie. Thus, from day one, our guiding principle has been clear: at Orenda House, we do more than just place a roof over a Veteran’s head; we create a community that promotes healing and growth.