From Humble Beginnings to Transformative Change
Firehouse Ministries was founded in 1983 as an outreach initiative of The Cooperative Downtown Ministries, driven by a commitment to serve Birmingham’s homeless community. On its first night, 12 men found refuge at the shelter, sleeping on floor mats in a modest second-floor dorm room. As the need grew, 25 bunk beds were added, expanding capacity to 50 men per night.
Today, Firehouse Ministries has evolved into the largest provider of shelter and supportive services for homeless men in Alabama, offering safe housing and essential care to more than 215 individuals each night across multiple locations.
Emergency Shelter: Immediate Support
Homelessness is a crisis, and for many, emergency shelter is the first step toward safety and stability. Our program ensures that men experiencing homelessness have a secure space and access to basic necessities.
Every night, Firehouse Ministries provides:
- 100 shelter beds in a safe environment
- Showers, laundry facilities, toiletries, and lockers
- Three daily meals and snacks
- Case management and support services to help individuals work toward housing stability
Our emergency shelter is low-barrier, welcoming individuals without preconditions such as sobriety or employment. Everyone deserves a safe place to sleep, and from there, we provide the tools for long-term recovery.
Four Decades of Service
For over 40 years, Firehouse Ministries has focused on breaking the cycle of homelessness through practical solutions and community parterships.
In our early years, we primarily focused on meeting immediate needs—providing food, clothing, and emergency shelter to homeless men. However, in 2002, we expanded our vision beyond temporary relief, emphasizing long-term housing and practical support. Through coordinated support, we provide the tools needed for stable housing and self-sufficiency.
Expanding Services
Day Shelter
Firehouse Ministries runs Birmingham’s largest day shelter, offering life skills workshops, structured programming, showers, restrooms, toiletries, lockers, mailing services, public meals up to four times daily, and food boxes for those facing food insecurity.
Housing Programs
Recognizing that stable housing is the foundation for success, Firehouse Ministries provides:
- Permanent supportive housing for individuals with severe mental illnesses
- Housing for those with critical medical needs
Medical Respite Program
Our Medical Respite Program provides care for medically fragile individuals discharged from hospitals who cannot recover on the streets. This is the only program of its kind for homeless individuals in Alabama.
Community Partnerships
Firehouse Ministries collaborates with local agencies to provide:
- Health clinics and educational programs
- Employment readiness workshops
- Substance abuse and mental health services
- Housing counseling and financial planning
- Job placement assistance
- Creative arts and wellness activities
Key Partners Include:
Alabama Department of Mental Health, Birmingham AIDS Outreach, Cahaba Medical, Community on the Rise, Faith Chapel, InToto Creative Arts, JBS Mental Health Authority, R.O.S.S., and University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
Join Us
Firehouse Ministries works every day to help men overcome homelessness and build a foundation for a better future. Partner with us to make a lasting difference.