Since its founding on April 27, 1977, The Ministry of Caring Inc. has been a steadfast force dedicated to serving the needs of the poor in Wilmington, Delaware, with dignity, respect, and love. Beginning with the establishment of Mary Mother of Hope House—the region’s first shelter for homeless and destitute women—the ministry has grown exponentially to offer comprehensive support to thousands of individuals facing homelessness, poverty, and hardship.
Today, The Ministry of Caring operates 19 vital programs that impact lives across the Wilmington area and surrounding communities. Its flagship Emmanuel Dining Room serves over 7 million nutritious meals at three locations, welcoming anyone in need without question or judgment. The ministry provides a full spectrum of housing services, from emergency shelters to permanent supportive housing, catering to men, women, families with children, seniors, adults living with disabilities, and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.
Beyond housing and meals, The Ministry of Caring offers essential services such as job placement and training, rapid rehousing initiatives, affordable dental care, high-quality, low-cost childcare, and mobile medical services. Each program is thoughtfully designed to restore self-worth, promote self-sufficiency, and rekindle hope for the most vulnerable members of the community.
Rooted deeply in the vision and compassionate leadership of Executive Director Brother Ronald Giannone, OFM Cap., The Ministry of Caring stands by the core belief that the poor should never be treated poorly.” This principle drives the ministry’s commitment to addressing systemic poverty, food insecurity, homelessness, and unemployment—issues that disproportionately affect children, seniors, and communities of color in Delaware.
Through safe and welcoming shelter spaces, dignified meals, supportive services, and programs focused on education and resilience, The Ministry of Caring works tirelessly to ease suffering and reduce the stigma of poverty. Their long-term goal is to empower those enduring hardship today while striving toward a future where poverty is eliminated, and their services are no longer needed.
For over four decades, The Ministry of Caring has united diverse staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners in a shared mission to uplift the lives and hearts of Wilmington’s most needy neighbors. Join them in this heartfelt mission and help transform lives through compassion, hope, and unwavering support.