About Us

​Our Mission

The Bancroft House provides a secure, temporary home for women, children, and families in need with compassion and respect for those we serve.

“God bless you for the work you do! Bancroft House became my home when I had none. Keep doing God’s work.”​
-Anonymous

Services We Provide

The clients of The Bancroft House are provided a safe, comfortable, clean, and quiet atmosphere in which their spirits may be renewed. Clients are women and children of any age and families of any size who are temporarily homeless and seeking shelter.

Where do our clients come from?

All of the people who stay with us are most often referred by one of the many social service agencies who work with those in need of assistance:

  • Department of Children & Youth Services
  • Community Action Programs
  • Homeless Outreach Programs
  • Town Welfare Departments
  • Area Churches & Police Departments

The shelter is located within convenient walking distance to shops and to the post office. All guest rooms are on the ground level and are easily accessible. Amenities include full bathrooms for each room, a living room, laundry room, private backyard, fully stocked pantry and communal kitchen. We operate seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

The Bancroft House does not provide professional counseling or therapy services, however, our staff is trained to facilitate referrals to appropriate caregivers.

Alcoholic beverages, drugs, and weapons of any kind are not permitted on premises.

The Bancroft House was incorporated in 1982 as “The Sanctuary”, and was originally affiliated with the Franconia Community Church of Christ. As individuals from the wider community participated in the project, The Sanctuary become independent of the church and, with the approval of the church, the Board was re-organized to reflect this diverse participation. In 1985, more spacious facilities were acquired and The Sanctuary ended its formal affiliation with the church, changing its name to The Bancroft House. The Bancroft House was named for the late Mrs. Evelyn Bancroft of Franconia, one of its original benefactors. It was founded by local people and has been sustained by the generosity of volunteers and private donors.

The Bancroft House was founded by local people and has been sustained by the generosity of volunteers and private donors. Since its founding in 1982, The Bancroft House has retained private, non-profit, tax-exempt status and depends on donations for all operations.

No amount is too small. If you are interested in donating or volunteering, please contact us for more information.

Check us out on Facebook for upcoming community events you can participate in to help benefit The Bancroft House!

The Bancroft House retains private, non-profit , tax exempt status and depends upon donations and grants for all operations.

IRS 501(c)-3  #06-6091462