History: More than 40 years ago, when Bartholomew Episcopal Church opened its food pantry to the community, they soon recognized that families needed shelter. Through funding from the United Way and other donors, the Nicholas House was born to serve homeless families.

Did you know: Seventy percent of the people served are children. The house has capacity for up to 50 people. For 90 days or more, caseworkers address each family’s mental, physical, financial or emotional needs. The Nicholas House monitors families for up to two years and 90% remain housed after leaving the program.

Motto: Nicholas House’s mission is to help homeless families become self-sufficient by providing them with a temporary place to live while addressing the root causes of their homelessness so that they never become homeless again.

How you can help: Volunteers are needed to facilitate adult workshops, such as money management, job readiness, computer skills and résumé writing. Assistance is needed in the children’s after-school and summer programs. Visit the Nicholas House online for a list of the most popular items needed, such as toiletries and food, or make a financial donation.

To learn more: Visit nicholashouse.org or email info@nicholashouse.org.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Rufus N. Darkortey and his wife, Joan Curran Darkortey, attended the 10th annual International Life Changers Awards & Fundraising Gala at the Marriott Gateway Hotel Atlanta. They are founders of a small nonprofit that has raised more than $300,000 to help people in their home country, Liberia. (Phil Skinner for the AJC)

Credit: Phil Skinner

Featured

Travelers walk around the baggage claim in the South Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. Atlanta is among the airports where the FAA will reduce flights due to the shutdown, and airports are facing a shortage of air traffic controllers. 
(Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez