Beginning in spring 2026, Union Mission will acquire Emmaus House, a long-standing organization rooted in faith and service, to become a vital part of Union Mission’s expanding family of programs. Emmaus House will relocate from its current location at 18 Abercorn Street, to Union Mission’s new Resource Center at 702 W. Oglethorpe Avenue.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment of compassion, dignity, and community impact – simplifying access to services and amplifying outcomes for those in need.

“By joining Union Mission, a trusted and long-standing provider of housing and behavioral health services, we are creating a critical pipeline from day services to housing programs, helping bridge one of our community’s most urgent gaps,” said Michael Traynor, President & CEO of Union Mission. “We are about bringing solutions to the obstacles facing our homeless community and this announcement brings us together in helping people to end their homelessness.”

The new Resource Center will serve as a “one-stop-shop” for comprehensive support services, including:

• Expanded day center (up to 200 attendees daily)

• Serving kitchen and dining space

• Showers, laundry, and barber shop/salon

• Private nursing and medical exam rooms

• Case management and housing navigation

• Mental health counseling and support groups

• Workforce development and enrichment programs

“This move positions Union Mission and Emmaus House to expand impact, deepen collaboration, and guide individuals from crisis to stability” said Ariana Berksteiner, Executive Director of Emmaus House. “Community support will ensure Emmaus House’s legacy not only continues—but grows stronger in a collaborative, transformative environment that meets people where they are and lifts them toward stability and independence.”

Union Mission’s Day Center, launched 2 years ago, has already made a significant community impact:

• 1,551 unduplicated individuals served

• 48,000+ total visits

• 120,000+ additional meals provided

Union Mission has housed hundreds of individuals through this program. Daily attendance has grown from an expected 50 to an average of 133, with a record of 176 in one day. This growth underscores the urgent need for expanded services and space.

The total funding needed for the new Resource Center is $4.6 million, with a capital campaign currently underway. To support, tour, get involved, or for all media inquiries, please contact Suzanne Willis, Union Mission Director of Marketing & Development at [email protected] or 509-939-4628.

About Union Mission: Union Mission has cared for Savannah’s homeless community for more than 85 years, offering emergency, transitional and permanent housing solutions to those in need. Union Mission also provides mental health counseling, food, clothing, transportation, and job placements as part of its comprehensive wrap-around supportive services available to all homeless people in the community. Learn more about Union Mission at www.unionmission.org.