December 27, 2024
daynelle@westmorelandchamber
The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Hosanna House, Inc. as its Non-Profit of the Month for January 2025. Located in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, Hosanna House has been a beacon of hope, health, and empowerment for over three decades, serving as a cornerstone for health services, education, workforce development, and youth empowerment.
Transforming a Community Through Vision and Action
"At Hosanna House, we aim to nurture the healthy development of children and families by listening attentively to their needs and providing opportunities to those who might not otherwise have access. Our steadfast commitment to children in the region is built around a focus on high-quality active and academic programming through our Hope Academy. By giving children and their families the chance to participate in these fun and nurturing programs, Hosanna House ensures that every kid has an opportunity to develop, grow, and thrive."
“Wilkinsburg gained a true treasure when a deteriorating, abandoned school building was transformed into Hosanna House,” shared Leon E. Haynes, III, the Founding Chief Executive Officer. “Through a collaborative, ‘It Takes a Village’ approach, we built partnerships to provide vital services to meet the needs of a deserving community.”
The journey began during a challenging period for Wilkinsburg. Once a thriving borough east of Pittsburgh, the collapse of the steel industry in the 1980s had devastating effects. Population decline, rising crime, and increasing economic hardships led to Wilkinsburg being declared a distressed community in 1987. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, the Covenant Church of Pittsburgh founded Hosanna House in 1990 as a 501(c)(3) organization. Shortly thereafter, the church acquired the abandoned Horner Middle School on Wallace Avenue, turning it into the heart of their mission. With the dedication of over 500 volunteers and significant community funding, Hosanna House officially opened its doors in 1996. It quickly became a hub for delivering critical health and human services to Wilkinsburg residents.
A Comprehensive Model of Empowerment
Hosanna House operates as a vibrant Settlement House, fostering collaborative partnerships that empower families to achieve self-sufficiency and thrive. Among its cornerstone initiatives is the UPMC Pathways to Work Job Center, which provides tools and resources for individuals seeking sustainable employment. This program has opened doors to opportunities within 16 job clusters in the UPMC system, helping participants achieve economic stability. Pierce Robison, a program participant, shared his gratitude: “I would not have made it past the application stage without the additional assistance of the Pathways to Work program.”
Recognizing the importance of holistic well-being, Hosanna House also connects residents to healthcare resources, organizes educational workshops, and provides vital health education programs. John Lovelace, President of UPMC for You, highlighted the partnership’s impact: “Hosanna House empowers individuals to reach their highest potential through workforce development and access to education.”
Nurturing the Next Generation
Youth development is a core focus of Hosanna House. Programs like CHAT & BALL emphasize character building and mentorship, while TEEN.CO encourages innovation, leadership, and self-empowerment. Intramural sports initiatives foster teamwork and promote physical health, ensuring a well-rounded experience for participants aged 13-17. These programs provide Wilkinsburg’s youth with safe, supportive environments to explore their potential and build brighter futures.
Investing in Sustainable Growth
Looking ahead, Hosanna House remains deeply committed to the long-term prosperity of Wilkinsburg. In collaboration with Action Housing, the organization is spearheading the Penn Avenue Development Project, set to break ground in early 2024. This ambitious initiative will feature 20,000 square feet of retail space and 42 affordable housing units, reflecting Hosanna House’s dedication to sustainable community development
Celebrating Resilience and Impact
The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce’s recognition of Hosanna House highlights the organization’s transformative impact on the Wilkinsburg community. “At Hosanna House, our mission has always been to help children, adults, and families not just live but truly thrive,” said Steve Hellner-Burris, Chief Operating Officer. “This recognition affirms the dedication of our team and the importance of investing in the potential of every individual we serve.”
Hosanna House’s story is a testament to the power of collaboration and hope in reshaping communities. The Chamber is honored to celebrate its achievements and looks forward to its continued success in creating a brighter future for Wilkinsburg and beyond.
For more information on Hosanna House’s history, programs, volunteer opportunities, and donations, visit hosannahouse.org or contact Billy Cowherd, Director of the Hope Group, at (412) 243-7711.
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