This October, House of Ruth marks 50 years of hope, healing and service in Washington, D.C.
Since opening its doors in 1976, more than 30,000 women, children and families have turned to House of Ruth for support as they rebuild their lives after trauma, abuse and houselessness.
Today, the organization operates 14 programs across the District, providing service-enriched housing, mental health counseling and trauma-informed early childhood education to more than 1,000 people each year.
House of Ruth’s work has evolved alongside the needs of the people it serves.
What began as an emergency shelter has grown into a comprehensive continuum of care designed not only to provide safety in a moment of crisis but to support long-term healing and stability.
From safe housing and counseling to early childhood education and pathways to greater independence, House of Ruth has spent five decades helping women, children and families build the foundation for their futures.
Reflecting on this 50-year journey, House of Ruth President and CEO Sandra Jackson shared: “Our 50th anniversary is a celebration of how far we have come and a launchpad for our future. ‘Hope Starts Here’ is our calling card, providing comprehensive support for families’ journey toward a hopeful future where everyone deserves to live free from violence and fear.”
As House of Ruth enters its next chapter, that commitment continues with a growing focus on affordable housing — helping bridge the gap between supportive housing and long-term independence for women and families rebuilding their lives in Washington, D.C.
To celebrate five decades of impact and the community that has made it possible, House of Ruth will host its Homecoming Celebration of Hope & Healing on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the National Housing Center in Washington, D.C. The fundraising celebration will bring together survivors, staff, supporters, partners and friends to honor 50 years of service and help propel House of Ruth into its next 50.
Looking back at this history of House of Ruth, I can only say how much I wish I had known about House of Ruth during my darkest days.
This topic is profoundly close to my heart. It is a matter I dedicated myself to writing about during the first five years of my 21-year journey authoring this column because I lived it. When I was just 18 years old, I said “I do” to a brave U.S. Marine who had just returned home from serving our country in the Vietnam War. We had a beautiful, outstanding wedding at St. Luke’s Catholic Church on East Capitol Street SE, D.C., on Aug. 22, 1970. I walked down the aisle with stars in my eyes, having no idea that my life was about to change forever.
The choking started almost right away.
While I won’t take up this space detailing the years of pain and trials I went through, that marriage lasted for 17 years. Out of that season, God blessed me with three wonderful children who are now thriving adults, and they have given me six beautiful grandchildren. But the scars of domestic violence remain a permanent part of my story.
My story is just one of thousands, but organizations like House of Ruth ensure that survivors do not have to walk their paths alone. As House of Ruth looks forward to the next 50 years, let us hold onto the promises of Scripture. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 9:9, “The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.”
Let us remember that no one has to suffer in silence. God provides a refuge, there is dignity, and most importantly, there is a way out.
For more information on the anniversary event or to support their mission, go to the official House of Ruth 50th Anniversary page.
Lyndia Grant is a speaker/writer living in the D.C. area. Her radio show, “Think on These Things,” airs Fridays at 6 p.m. on 1340 AM (WYCB), a Radio One station. To reach Grant, go to her website, www.lyndiagrant.com, email lyndiagrantshowdc@gmail.com or call 240-602-6295. Follow her on X @LyndiaGrant and on Facebook.
