The Live-In Community is a core piece of Haley House. Since our founding, Live-In Community members that commit to two years of residency and service have kept our direct services running while doing the important work of building community with each other and our guests. Room and board is provided so community members can dedicate themselves to running our soup kitchen and food pantry, as well as intentional community living (sharing work, meals, reflection, and daily life). The community is typically made up of 6-8 people from a variety of backgrounds, and being a part of this community is a transformational experience.
There are two steps to apply for the Live-In Community:
Joining this community and living together takes courage. It means challenging each other with a deep respect for the learning process of each individual, while holding a safe space for positive growth. Community living also requires accountability to both those we serve and those who support us. Read on for some answers to commonly asked questions about the community and the application process.
The community may reach out to schedule a phone or video conversation with applicants following the submission of all application materials. If the community feels that an applicant is a good fit after reviewing their application, they are invited for a two-week stay. This trial stay is a holistic introduction to the soup kitchen programs, the living arrangements of the house, and the community lifestyle, and it also provides applicants an opportunity to explore the surrounding city. After a two-week stay, the applicant moves out of the community for a week of discernment. During this time, the applicant and the community each reflect on their experiences together and determine if the applicant is a good fit for the two-year commitment. After the week, the community reaches out to the applicant with their final decision.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their application materials as soon as they are ready. Please note, the community does not extend invitations for two-week stays more than three months in advance of an applicant’s projected move-in date.
In return for 20-25 hours of work in and supporting the Soup Kitchen, room and board is provided. Food is allocated through our Soup Kitchen, unless you have very particular dietary concerns. Community members attend weekly meetings to discuss community and business matters and gather for a weekly community dinner. Members also take on additional side projects and chores while at Haley House.
Some people want or need part-time jobs or are taking a few classes during their live-in experience. Outside work and continuing education is possible with the right time management and communication with the community, but we view our commitment to the community and soup kitchen as our first priority. Stipend work may be available depending on your skill set, interests, and the current availability of positions in the community.
The Live-In Community welcomes all faith backgrounds, but we do not have a structured religious setting.
Community connectivity is the most important component of our work. We encourage participation in South End community events throughout the year, communication with our neighbors, and inviting friends, family, Soup Kitchen guests, and others to our weekly community dinner.
Our kitchen operates six days per week, and each live-in member acts as a facilitator of the breakfast shift. Some duties include volunteer management and supervision, kitchen safety and health code, and facilitating an environment of respect and peace in the kitchen. These skills are learned by new members and are not a prerequisite to entering the community.
Haley House uses food with purpose and the power of community to break down barriers between people, empower individuals, and strengthen neighborhoods. We believe in radical solutions: solving problems at their root by challenging attitudes that perpetuate suffering and building alternative models.
Sample language to share with your attorney:
Sample language to share with your attorney:
