New: Garden Walk June 25

Our History

Shelter Care was established in 1984 as a response to the growing population of homeless in the Rockford metropolitan area. A year later it  was honored with the designation as a Jubilee Ministry Center by the National Episcopal Church. Shelter Care is affiliated with Episcopal Charities and the United Way.

In 1995 Shelter Care started its Emergency and Transitional Housing Program for families in homelessness; this program has expanded to 20 furnished apartments. These units specifically serve families with minor children, allowing the family to stay together as adults work to stabilize their situation. 

Shelter Care recently became the managing partner of MAYA’S House (founded by the Junior League of Rockford in 2003). MAYA's House is a day time Drop-In Day Center for homeless children. MAYA'S House gives parents a safe, structured, educational environment for their children while allowing them to look for a job or obtain the training or education they need.  

Shelter Care continues to focus on the critical needs of homeless families and adults living with mental illness. It has strengthened programs and filled gaps in the community advocating for those in need and assisting them in their journey to self sufficiency.