Building a Safe Haven

Uniting Community for Change

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The basic needs we are focused on meeting are needs that we all share as human beings.

We serve a diverse range of individuals facing challenging circumstances, from those who have been chronically street homeless to families and individuals who have recently lost their jobs and are worried about losing access to food and shelter. We understand the urgency of their needs and the varied experiences that bring people to our doors. Our mission is to provide support, resources, and a compassionate environment for everyone, regardless of their situation. Together, we strive to create pathways to stability and hope for all those we serve.

Virtual Tour

At Homeward Bound, we believe in the power of community. Through partnerships with local agencies and by actively engaging with our guests, we gain valuable insights into the needs of those in Wayne County. This understanding allows us identify and lower barriers to accessing essential resources. By utilizing the support of our local community through volunteer efforts and donations, we are committed to helping others.

We provided essentials so that individuals and families can focus on fulfilling and pursuing their higher needs.

Homeward Bound's 2025 Impact

Day Center

220 Unique individuals visited the Day Center
6,014 total Day Center visits
100-150 cups of coffee drank daily, with 4 pounds of sugar and 3 pounds of creamer

Overnight Shelter

138 unique individuals stayed at the shelter
5,955 bed nights

Additional Services

1,461 guest loads of laundry completed
3,158- Number of Showers Taken by Guests

Food Program

19,588 total meals served
1,397 breakfasts served
7,426 lunches served
10,765 dinners served
Over 60 churches, organizations, groups and families have helped prepare the meals for our guests.
In one week, we use 10 gallons of milk and 20 loaves of bread
Receive food from Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank
Recipient of fresh produce from A Whole Community, Inc.
Received over 1,000 pounds of meat from Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry of Wayne County

Volunteering

1,250 Hours Tracked
949 Shifts Completed
219 Unique Volunteers

How to Get Involved

Join us in making a difference! Stay connected by us on social media to spread our messages, at our facility as an individual or as part a group, or sign up to provide a meal. Keep an eye out for upcoming events and opportunities to our mission as they become.

Learn More

Our Mission and Vision

Homeward Bound of Wooster and Wayne County, Inc. is dedicated to offering shelter and support to individuals experiencing homelessness in Wooster, OH. Our goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment while empowering individuals to regain stability.

We envision a community where everyone has a place to call home. Through our programs, we strive to address not just immediate needs but also the root causes of homelessness, fostering lasting change and a renewed sense of hope.

Learn More

What We Offer

Our initiatives aim to uplift those in need by providing essential resources and services.

Overnight Shelter

Safe Sheltering

We provide a secure shelter where individuals can find refuge and support as they work towards long-term housing solutions. Our environment fosters respect, dignity, and hope for a better future.

Day Center

Access to Support

Welcome to our Day Center, a safe and welcoming space designed to support you throughout the day. Here, you can enjoy nutritious meals, access essential case management services from local agencies, and take advantage of our laundry and shower facilities.

Want to Fill The Need this Friday?

Love is in the air at our shelter, and we’re getting ready to celebrate a very special wedding! To help make this day beautiful and meaningful, we’re reaching out to our amazing community for a little support.

We are currently in need of wedding decorations and flowers in red and black colors. Whether it’s centerpieces, artificial or fresh flowers, table décor, fabric, or any gently used wedding items in these colors, every donation helps us create a memorable and joyful celebration.

If you have items to give or would like to help, please reach out or stop by. Your kindness truly makes moments like this possible.

Thank you for helping us turn a special day into something unforgettable!
#FillTheNeedFriday #HomewardBound #Wedding

This Thankful Thursday...

We’re shining a light on Esther, whose steady presence and caring hands keep our shelter running smoothly.

Each week, Esther comes in to tackle one of the most essential (and often unseen) parts of our work: facility laundry. From bedding to towels, she makes sure our guests have clean, comfortable items waiting for them. Her consistency brings dignity, warmth, and a sense of home to people who need it most.

Esther, thank you for showing up with kindness, reliability, and heart.
Your work matters more than you know.

#ThankfulThursday #CommunityCare #VolunteersMakeItHappen

Our Day Center isn’t just a place to warm up or rest, it’s a connection point.

Every week, case managers from partner organizations meet with guests here, helping them access housing support, benefits, recovery services, and more.

By opening our doors to partner agencies, we make it easier for people to get the help they need without extra travel, stress, or barriers.

This is what collaboration looks like in action. #WhatWeDoWednesday #CommunityStrong #HomewardBound

Grief doesn’t always look like tears.
Sometimes it looks like exhaustion, quietness, irritability, or needing space.
Sometimes it looks like starting over.

This Mindful Monday, we remind our community that every person carries a story we can’t see. A little patience, a little compassion, and a little gentleness can make all the difference.

We’re committed to being a place where people can breathe, rest, and rebuild at their own pace.

#MindfulMonday #ShelterStrong

Happy Fill the Need Friday!

Spring cleaning season is here, and your gently used items can do more than clear space, they can directly support neighbors experiencing homelessness.

If you’re dropping off donations at Goodwill in Wooster, you can simply let the team know you ’d like your items to go toward Homeward Bound’s voucher fund.
These vouchers help our guests access clothing, shoes, household essentials, and work‑readiness items that restore dignity and stability.

Every closet clean‑out becomes a chance to lift someone up.
Thank you for choosing to make a difference right here in our community this spring.#HomewardBound #FillTheNeedFriday #springcleaning

This Thankful Thursday You Help Us Stay Ready!

Today we’re feeling extra grateful for the steady stream of in‑kind donations that keep our shelves, cabinets, and supply rooms full.

From hygiene items and cleaning supplies to socks, snacks, and bedding, every single donation helps us meet our guests’ needs with dignity and care. Because of you, we’re able to say “yes, we have that” when someone walks through our doors after a hard day. That matters more than most people ever see.

As we continue to serve more neighbors, we’re also working hard to keep our operations strong and sustainable. If you’re able, a monetary gift helps us fill the gaps, respond quickly to urgent needs, and keep the shelter running safely each night.

Your generosity in every form keeps hope alive here.

Thank you for standing with us.
#ThankfulThursday #CommunityStrong

It’s What We Do Wednesday!

A guest at Homeward Bound recently shared:
“I came here scared and exhausted. I left feeling like someone finally saw me.”

When we say guest, we mean the individuals we serve, people who come to us during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

Hearing this reminds us why we’re here. It means our space is more than just a place to stay, it’s a place where people are met with dignity, compassion, and understanding.

This is what matters most to us. #HomewardBound #WhatWeDoWednesday

Meet Maneeka, one of our Support Specialists.

In her six months at Homeward Bound, Maneeka has found the most meaningful moments in the simple, heartfelt gratitude of our guests, whether it’s for a hot meal, a shower, or a safe place to stay. Those everyday basics remind her just how important this work truly is.

She values being able to help meet the essential needs of people in our community and believes deeply that every guest is a human being deserving of dignity and compassion. Maneeka knows that many of us could find ourselves in similar circumstances, and that understanding drives her commitment to serve.

At heart, she simply loves helping people and making a difference wherever she can.
We’re thankful for Maneeka’s kindness, empathy, and dedication to caring for others. #TeamTuesday #HomewardBound

#TeamTuesday

Meet Dani, one of our Support Specialists. Her connection to Homeward Bound began during her interview, when she jumped right in to help serve lunch. That moment opened her eyes to the importance of the shelter’s work and the impact it has on ensuring guests don’t go hungry. It was a powerful reminder of how community and church support helps make these meals possible.

Dani is passionate about giving back and hopes to help others along their journey. She believes that experiencing homelessness does not define a person’s character, and that everyone deserves compassion and understanding.

In her personal life, Dani is in recovery and celebrated three years clean and sober this February. She enjoys spending time with her family—especially her four kids—and loves camping, fishing, and searching for new ice cream spots together.

We’re excited Dani joined the team and grateful for the lived experience, heart, and hope she brings to Homeward Bound.

Good Afternoon and Happy Mindful Monday!

On this Mindful Monday, we reflect on the women who have shaped movements, challenged systems, and cared for communities with fierce compassion.

Their legacy reminds us to:

• Lead with empathy
• Create room for every voice
• Protect the dignity of those too often overlooked
• Build systems that lift people up, not shut them out

We see that legacy alive in the women who walk through our doors who are survivors, leaders, mothers, daughters, neighbors. Their stories matter, and we are honored to walk alongside them.

#MindfulMonday #WomensHistoryMonth #HomewardBound

Consent matters. Safety matters. You matter.

OneEighty’s Victim Advocates are offering virtual Sexual Violence Support Groups this spring — a confidential space to find comfort, respect, and community.

To register, call 330‑264‑8498 or 1‑800‑686‑1122 and ask to speak with an advocate.

Healing happens in community, and you deserve support every step of the way.

It's Thankful Thursday!

Meet Ron!

Ron shows up every week to prepare a Friday lunch for our guests, bringing not only a great meal but also a generous spirit. On top of volunteering his time in the kitchen, Ron regularly shares ideas to help increase our efficiency and connect us with new partners in the community.

We’re incredibly grateful for Ron’s dedication and the many ways he supports our mission. Thank you, Ron, for showing up and making a difference each week! #HomewardBound #thankfulthursday

#TeamTuesday Meet Nicole, our Intake Specialist. Nicole finds meaning in every step of a guest’s journey, from intake conversations to celebrating milestones like housing and recovery. She cherishes the connections formed and the joy shared during moments of success.

Nicole believes Homeward Bound is a place where people are treated as equals, where accomplishments are celebrated, and where compassion leads the way. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her daughters, friends, and learning new things.

We’re thankful for Nicole’s kindness, empathy, and commitment to making every guest feel valued.

Fill The Need Friday!

Our wishlist is full of items that help us support our community, and right now our greatest needs are: Hair Brushes and Combs, Laundry Detergent Sheets, Tampons, Coffee, Sugar, and Juice/Drink Mixes.

There are many other helpful items on the list as well, and every donation makes a real difference. If you’re able to help, please click the link below to view the full wishlist and send support our way.

https://a.co/00j1sdhm

Mail a gift: PO Box 217, Wooster, OH 44691

Thank you for always standing with us and helping meet these important needs!
#filltheneedfriday #homewardbound

Every Thursday, we highlight someone who helps make Homeward Bound feel like home. Today, we’re celebrating Rob.

Rob shows up week after week to prepare a meal for our guests, a simple act that means so much to those who rely on a warm plate and a welcoming space. Beyond the kitchen, he’s a steady voice in the community, sharing our mission and helping connect more neighbors to the support they need.

Thank you, Rob, for feeding both stomachs and spirits.
#ThankfulThursday #homewardbound

Meet Nicki, one of our Guest Services team members. Nicki finds purpose in seeing lives change and being a trusted advocate for guests both inside and outside the shelter. She values the compassion and integrity shared among the team and believes showing up consistently can truly change lives.

Her passion comes from knowing that everyone deserves support, dignity, and understanding, especially during vulnerable moments.

We’re grateful for Nicki’s dedication and heart for advocacy.
#Homewardbound #TeamTuesday

Happy Mindful Monday!

International Women’s Day is March 8th!

This week, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of women everywhere. We also recognize the challenges many women in our country continue to face, including homelessness.

On any given night in the United States, over 300,000 women experience homelessness, representing nearly 40% of the total homeless population. In recent years, the number of newly homeless women has risen sharply, now accounting for nearly 45% of new cases.

Behind these numbers are real stories. More than half of unhoused women are survivors of domestic violence. Many are mothers working to protect and provide stability for their children. While most women experiencing homelessness are sheltered, the need for safe, stable housing continues to grow.

This International Women’s Day, we honor the courage of women navigating unimaginable challenges.

When we support women, we strengthen families, communities, and futures.
#InternationalWomensDay #Homewardbound #MindfulMonday

The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to show what it looks like when a law‑enforcement agency invests in the wellbeing of its people. Today’s feature highlights K9 Hope—an English Labrador whose entire job is to bring comfort, connection, and calm to first responders on their hardest days.

Therapy dogs like Hope are more than mascots; they’re part of a broader commitment to mental health, peer support, and trauma‑informed care. From easing stress after critical incidents to offering a grounding presence during long shifts, these K9 teams make a real difference for those who serve our communities.

Hope’s gentle spirit, love for swimming, and enthusiasm for bacon-flavored treats remind us that healing doesn’t always come from big moments—sometimes it’s found in small, steady acts of care.

Recovery is possible. Support is real. And no one has to walk this work alone.

Thank You for Filling the Need Friday!

As our Share the Love campaign is coming to a close we would love to show what impact was made on us!

January 2026 Impact Report Stats

759 breakfast
1,386 lunches
1,678 dinners

Unique Day Center Guest- 101
Total Day Center Visitors- 1,157

Unique Overnight Guests- 98
Total Overnight Stays- 1,385

214 Day Center Showers
113 Day Center Laundry Cycles

265 Evening Showers
93 Evening Laundry Cycles

We would love to thank everyone that was involved and interacted with this campaign!

If you’d like to keep the love going:
• Volunteer with us
• Make a donation to support daily operations
• Purchase items from our wishlist: https://a.co/iurp6HA
• Share our posts to spread awareness
• Join our email list at contactus@homewardboundwwc.org
#spreadthelove #Homewardbound #Filltheneedfridays

Shout Out to Our Spread the Love Supporters!
You did it, Wooster and Wayne County.

All month long, you showed up with generosity, compassion, and so much heart — and we feel it every single day inside Homeward Bound.

From hygiene items and warm clothing to meals, snacks, and thoughtful notes…
From first‑time donors to long‑time partners…
From individuals, families, churches, and businesses…

Every single gift has helped us spread love to our neighbors who need it most.
Because of you, guests are walking through our doors and finding warmth, dignity, and community.

Because of you, we can keep meeting daily needs with compassion.
Because of you, hope feels a little closer for so many.
Thank you for giving, sharing, caring, and believing in this mission.
You are the heartbeat of Homeward Bound.

If you’d like to keep the love going:
• Volunteer with us
• Make a donation to support daily operations
• Purchase items from our wishlist: https://a.co/iurp6HA
• Share our posts to spread awareness
• Join our email list at contactus@homewardboundwwc.org

Together, we’re building a community where everyone belongs.
#Homewardbound #spreadthelove #ThankfulThursday

Happy Mindful Monday!

African American women are leaders, caregivers, and changemakers, yet they face unique challenges at the intersection of race and gender. Systemic barriers contribute to higher risks of housing instability and homelessness for many women.

This month and always, we honor their strength and reaffirm our commitment to dignity, equity, and safe housing for all.
#BlackHistoryMonth #spreadthelove #Homewardbound #MindfulMonday

Its officially the LAST week of our Spread the Love campaign, and there’s still time to make a powerful impact.

Your gifts this month have fueled meals, shelter, outreach, and hope for neighbors experiencing homelessness. As we enter the final stretch, we’re asking our community to help us finish strong.

Whether you give, volunteer, share our posts, or sponsor a night of shelter, every act of love matters.

Donate: https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj

Let’s make this last week count. #Homewardbound #spreadthelove

Its Fill The Need Friday!

Sponsor a night for the shelter:

Tonight, you can change everything for someone in our community.
For $1,500, you can sponsor an entire night of shelter at Homeward Bound, providing 44 neighbors with a warm bed, a hot meal, safety, and the dignity of being welcomed without judgment.

Your support keeps our doors open to anyone who needs a place to land. It fuels hope, stability, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to rest and rebuild.

If you or your business would like to sponsor a night of shelter, we’d love to partner with you. Together, we can make sure no one has to face the night alone.

Donate Now: https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj

Give today. Spread the Love. Change a life.
#spreadthelove #Homewardbound #Filltheneedfridays

Did you know Orrville has a local food pantry available every 3rd Saturday?
Five Voices opens its doors from 10AM–12PM to support neighbors with groceries, connection, and encouragement.

If you or someone you know could use a little extra support this month, you’re welcome here.
Recovery is possible, and our community believes in you.

Learn more at fivevoicesorrville.org.

Happy Random Acts of Kindness Day!

A small act, kind words, a helping hand, or a simple donation can make a big difference in someone’s day. Join us in spreading kindness and compassion in our community.

What act of kindness can you do today? #randomactsofkindness

Every baby deserves a safe place to sleep — and we’re here to help.

If you or someone you know lives in Wayne or Holmes County and is expecting or caring for a newborn, the Wayne County Health Department WIC Program may be able to provide a free crib through the Cribs for Kids initiative.

Safe sleep saves lives.
Support is available.
You’re not alone.

To learn more about eligibility or to get connected, call 330‑264‑1942.

Recovery is possible. We believe in you.

Fill The Need Friday!

Our wishlist is full of items that help us support our community, and right now our greatest needs are: Hair brushes, Men’s body wash, and Tampons.

There are many other helpful items on the list as well, and every donation makes a real difference. If you’re able to help, please click the link below to view the full wishlist and send support our way.

https://a.co/04XFnQvV

Mail a gift: PO Box 217, Wooster, OH 44691

Thank you for always standing with us and helping meet these important needs!
#SpreadtheLove #filltheneedfriday #homewardbound

Volunteer Spotlight: Bucky Cares!

Bucky Cares is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children of all abilities and families in need. They provide support such as Christmas assistance, clothing, food, shoes, haircuts, and more. The organization also proudly serves disabled veterans.

Bucky Cares has recently begun serving meals on several Saturdays, and we are incredibly grateful for their help and ongoing support.

Thank you, Bucky Cares, for all that you do!

Happy Mindful Monday!

If you’re looking for a positive way to start your week, consider supporting our cause. Together we can do amazing things!

https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj

#SpreadtheLove #homewardbound #MindfulMonday

“Love looks like shelter.”
Your generosity keeps our doors open and our beds warm.
Donate today:
Online- https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj
Mail- PO Box 217, Wooster, OH 44691
#SpreadTheLoveWayneCounty #CommunityStrong #spreadthelove

Pop-Up Pantry Alert!
The Wayne County Health Department and Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank are teaming up to bring fresh food to our community — every second Tuesday of the month from 11 AM to 1 PM at 244 W South St., Wooster.

No registration required. Just show up and stock up — because recovery is possible, and we believe in you

Hosted in the WCHD parking lot

Message brought to you by the Partnership for Drug-Free Wayne & Holmes Counties

Hope grows when the community steps in.
Help us Spread the Love by sharing this post and inviting others to join the movement.
#SpreadTheLoveWayneCounty #spreadthelove #CommunityStrong

#ThankfulThursday feels extra special today.
We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible generosity of woostereagles811, who donated an astounding $20,734 to support the mission of Homeward Bound.

This gift directly strengthens our ability to provide safety, warmth, and dignity to our neighbors experiencing homelessness. It fuels meals, shelter, connection, and hope — the very heart of what we do.

To everyone at Aerie 811: thank you for believing in this work and standing with our community. Your compassion makes a real and lasting impact.
#SpreadtheLoveWayneCounty #SpreadtheLove #CommunityStrong

High‑need items this week:
Coffee, Sugar, Creamer
New socks
Cleaning supplies
Kitchen Supplies

Donations can be dropped off.
981 Grosjean Rd., Wooster OH 44691

Wishlist: https://a.co/dByBA8y

#TeamTuesday Meet Jennifer, one of our Care Coordinators. For Jennifer, the most rewarding moments are when guests reclaim control of their lives, whether that’s securing a job, finding housing, or choosing treatment and recovery.

She loves watching guests grow and succeed, and she believes Homeward Bound is making meaningful progress in addressing homelessness in our community. When she’s not supporting guests, Jennifer enjoys cooking and baking, another way she shows care for others.

We’re thankful for Jennifer’s steady presence and commitment to walking alongside guests as they move forward.

Love is showing up.
We’re looking for volunteers to help with meals, donation sorting, cleaning teams, and more.
A few hours can change someone’s night.
Message us to get started. Email our Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager, Karen, at volunteer@homewardboundwwc.org to get started!
#spreadthelove #spreadthelovewaynecounty

One Year of Hope, Safety, and Community — Thank You, Wayne County!

One year ago today, we opened the doors of our 44‑bed facility and welcomed our first guests. What began as a vision — born from cots in a gymnasium and a community determined to care for its most vulnerable — has grown into a place of stability, dignity, and connection.

In just twelve months, this space has become a lifeline.
A warm bed on a cold night.
A hot meal shared with kindness.
A shower, clean clothes, a listening ear.
A place where next steps begin and no one has to walk alone.

This milestone belongs to our staff, our volunteers, our partners, and every supporter who believes in a community where everyone is worthy of safety and care.

As we celebrate year one, we invite you to keep this mission moving forward:
• Donate online: https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj
• Mail a gift: PO Box 217, Wooster, OH 44691
• Volunteer: Your time makes a real difference
• Purchase from our wishlist: https://a.co/04XFnQvV
• Spread the message & spread the love: Share our posts, tell our story, and help us reach more neighbors in need

Your support fuels every meal, every warm bed, every moment of hope.
Here’s to one year of impact — and to all the lives we’ll touch together in the years ahead. 💜💚
#SpreadtheLove #SpreadtheLoveWayneCounty

Every act of love matters.
$100 helps provide a warm meal.
$300 covers meals for a day.
$1,500 supports a night of shelter services.
Give with heart today. Spread the Love. 💜💚💜💚

Online: https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj
Mail: PO Box 217, Wooster, OH 44691

Mindful Monday💙

Even in the coldest seasons, warmth comes from kindness, care, and community. At Homeward Bound, our team provides shelter, meals, and support to those experiencing homelessness.

Today, let’s reflect on the warmth we can share with others sometimes a smile, a phone call, or a kind word is enough to light someone’s day. #MindfulMonday

This month, we honor the history, resilience, and contributions of Black individuals whose impact has shaped our communities and our country. We also recognize that Black individuals are disproportionately affected by homelessness due to long-standing systemic inequities. Black history is not just history, it’s a living, ongoing story that deserves recognition, equity, and respect every day.#HomewardBound #BlackHistoryMonth

Love looks like shelter, dignity, and hope. 💚💜💚💜
Today we kick off our Spread the Love campaign — a month dedicated to compassion in action.
Donate, volunteer, or give in‑kind to support neighbors experiencing homelessness.

Online donations: https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj
Mail Donations: PO Box 217, Wooster OH 44691
Wishlist: https://a.co/dByBA8y

#SpreadTheLoveWayneCounty

This month, we’re taking a moment to say thank you, to our donors, volunteers, staff, and community members. Your support helps us provide shelter, hope, and dignity to those who need it most. 💙

Every kind word, donation, and act of service makes a difference. From all of us at Homeward Bound, thank you for being part of our mission! 🙏
#NationalThankYouMonth #Gratitude #CommunitySupport #HomewardBound

Homeward Bound of Wooster & Wayne County Launch “Spread the Love” Campaign

Wooster, OH — Homeward Bound of Wooster & the Wayne County Homeless Shelter is inviting the community to come together through its Spread the Love campaign, aimed at raising funds, recruiting volunteers, and collecting essential supplies for individuals experiencing homelessness.

February is recognized as Homelessness Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals and families experiencing homelessness. This month serves as an opportunity to build empathy, break down stigma, and encourage action to address the issue. It highlights the importance of stable housing and the need for community support to help those in need.

The campaign highlights how small acts of kindness—donations, volunteering, and in-kind gifts—can restore dignity and provide hope to neighbors in need.

“Our goal is to remind the community that love looks like shelter, safety, and compassion,” said Brandon Barnes, Executive Director of Homeward Bound of Wooster and Wayne County. “Every contribution helps someone feel supported and valued.”

Community members can participate by donating funds, volunteering their time, or providing much-needed items such as hygiene supplies, socks, and cleaning products. Donations can be mailed (PO Box 217, Wooster, OH 44691) or made online (https://givebutter.com/eQLRoj).

For more information on how to get involved, follow Homeward Bound of Wooster on social media.

Contact: Brandon Barnes, Executive Director brandonb@homewardboundwwc.org, 330-439-2990

Mental health matters. Healing is possible. And support is here.

At Wooster Community Hospital, our Behavioral Health Services offer compassionate care for those navigating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more.

Whether you’re seeking coping strategies, therapy, or a path toward recovery, we believe in you—and we’re ready to walk beside you.

1685 Cleveland Rd, Wooster, OH
330.263.8710
woosterhospital.com/behavioral-health-services

Recovery starts with connection. Let’s take that first step together.

#MentalHealthMatters #RecoveryIsPossible #WoosterCommunityHospital #BehavioralHealthSupport #YouAreNotAlone

Meet Missy, our Kitchen Manager. Missy shared how meaningful it is to welcome guests exactly as they are without expectations of perfection and to walk alongside them as they take small, hopeful steps toward their goals.

She reflected on how she wishes her own son had a place like Homeward Bound, a place offering food, shelter, acceptance, and staff who genuinely care and listen. For Missy, the most rewarding part of her role is watching guests grow and celebrating the “baby steps” that lead to bigger changes.

Missy reminds us that homelessness is not a choice and that any one of us could find ourselves needing support after a loss, accident, or major life change. She strives every day to see the good in others, believing that a kind word or simple encouragement can change someone’s day and her own.

Goodwill Wayne & Holmes is more than a thrift store—it’s a force for community transformation.

90¢ of every dollar goes right back into Wayne & Holmes Counties, fueling job training, career growth, and recovery support.

From overcoming challenges to building futures, Goodwill is here for the journey.

Recovery is possible. We believe in you.
This message is proudly shared in partnership with the Partnership for Drug-Free Wayne & Holmes Counties.

#DonateStuffCreateJobs #RecoveryIsPossible #GoodwillImpact #WayneCounty #HolmesCounty #CommunityStrong #SecondChances

#ThankfulThursday
Every Wednesday, Charles brings heart and flavor to our kitchen. After trying out laundry, he found his true calling in cooking—and we’re so glad he did. He checks our pantry, finds creative recipes, and prepares meals that he’d be proud to eat himself.

Thank you, Charles, for nourishing our guests with care, creativity, and delicious food. You make Wednesdays something to look forward to!

#TeamTuesday Meet Olivia, our Shelter Manager. Olivia finds fulfillment in watching the growth that happens during a guest’s time at Homeward Bound. She values the small wins, each goal set, worked toward, and accomplished, no matter how big or small.

She believes Homeward Bound is more than a place to sleep; it’s a community that meets people where they are. Olivia reminds us that homelessness is not a personal failure, but a community challenge that requires compassion and education.

We’re thankful for Olivia’s leadership and the care she brings to both guests and staff.

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Building a Safe Haven

The basic needs we are focused on meeting are needs that we all share as human beings.

We provided essentials so that individuals and families can focus on fulfilling and pursuing their higher needs.

Homeward Bound's 2025 Impact

Day Center

Overnight Shelter

Additional Services

Food Program

Volunteering

How to Get Involved

Our Mission and Vision

What We Offer

Overnight Shelter

Day Center

Follow Us

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Follow us on Instagram