In 1988, a group of local citizens founded Our House, recognizing that the lack of affordable childcare kept many families from overcoming homelessness. In addition, shelter rules required families to leave early each morning and not return until evening, regardless of whether they had anywhere to go.

Our founders envisioned more than free childcare: they wanted a loving, safe haven where a parent could confidently leave her child while she sought employment and permanent housing. With that commitment and love, they created Our House, which over the years has evolved into a beacon of practical assistance and encouragement through valuable supportive services for the entire family.

Today, the nation recognizes that affordable, quality childcare is critical to many families’ success in overcoming homelessness, welfare dependency, and poverty. Since the beginning, we have been progressive in our use of the latest research to guide the application of our programs. In addition to being the first homeless-specific childcare center to receive accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, Our House has received awards from DeKalb County, the City of Decatur, and has been featured at several conferences for our innovative approach.