About

Wayfinders was formerly known as Harmony House, which opened in March of 1990 through the efforts of the Mansfield-Richland-Morrow Total Operations Against Poverty program to serve the homeless of Richland and surrounding counties.

An initial start-up grant was received through the Ohio Department of Development as well as funds from Richland County, the City of Mansfield, and private donations. A building located at 163 W. Fifth St. was purchased and renovated. The building could house up to 18 women and children and within the first several years was always filled to capacity with a waiting list.

A second building was donated by the Richland County Foundation in 1995. Located at 124 W. Third St., the building had originally been a factory and most recently had housed the junior Achievement Program. Extensive renovation was required and assistance was provided through the National Guard, Mansfield Correctional Institution, The Friends of Harmony House, other volunteers and numerous funding sources including: the City and County, foundations, Ohio Department of Development and private groups and individuals. In November of 1998 the renovation of Harmony House II was completed and the building was occupied by homeless men, women, and children.

In January 2007, Harmony House separated from MRMTOAP, Inc. with the new name of Harmony House Homeless Services, Inc. Jerry Eckstein was elected Board Chairman and assisted with the filing of the Articles of Incorporation and the 501(c)3 application. Pat Bell and Jack Pollock also helped with the start-up of the new corporation. Notification of approval of non-profit status was received in June 2007.

Rupp foundation aided with funds to purchase the playground area behind Harmony House.

Over the past 18 years of operation, Harmony House has assisted thousands of homeless men, women and children with food, shelter, clothing and case management assistance. Strong community support helps keep services for the homeless ongoing.

Staff