The Strength of a Sparrow
Hope, Opportunity
and Support
We strive to empower women and children as they journey from homelessness to self-sufficiency.
2026 Home of the Sparrow
Celebration of Women Luncheon!
March 6th, 2026: Join us for an unforgettable afternoon filled with celebration, raffles, awards, delicious food, and meaningful connections.
We are also thrilled to present the Third Annual Spirit of the Sparrow Awards, honoring outstanding women, volunteers, and organizations making a remarkable impact in our community.
What We Do
Our Services & Programs
In Fiscal Year 2025:
Community Referrals
%
Individuals Entering Permanent Housing
Nights of Shelter Provided
Volunteer Hours
Who Is HOS?
Over 37 Years in the Community
Home of the Sparrow opened its doors as a registered 501(c)3 non-profit homeless shelter in 1987. Today, Home of the Sparrow not only provides Transitional Shelter, but also Affordable Housing and Rapid Re-Housing combined with Supportive Services that address the core issues of homelessness.
Our Mission
To reduce the prevalence of homelessness among women, children, families, and individuals through creative strategies and community partnerships that result in lasting self-sufficiency.
Our Vision
To provide Hope, Opportunity and Support that empowers women, children, families, and individuals who are experiencing homelessness as they journey to self-sufficiency.
Latest News
HOS 2026 Celebration of Women Luncheon Honors Local Changemakers and Support Families in Need
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Holly Dorn Director of Development HDorn@hosparrow.org - (815) 271 5444 ext. 224 Home of the Sparrow Hosts 2026 Celebration of Women Luncheon to Honor...
Home of the Sparrow’s 2025 Holiday Giving Program Empowers the Community to Bring Hope and Joy to Families in Need
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Woodstock, Ill. (Nov 2025) – This holiday season, Home of the Sparrow (HOS) invites the community to spread hope and cheer through its annual Holiday...
Celebrating Liz Heneks on her Retirement from HOS
As we bid farewell to Elizabeth (Liz) Heneks on her retirement from Home of the Sparrow, we want to celebrate her exceptional 42-year career, including the last 8½ years...
Professional Basketball Player Jeremiah Wilson’s The Grind Sports Foundation Partners with Home of the Sparrow for Spark Hope 2025 Fundraiser
[Woodstock, IL] — Home of the Sparrow is thrilled to announce a new partnership with professional basketball player Jeremiah Wilson and The Grind Sports Foundation for Spark...