Peoria Friendship House

Incorporated in April of 1951, Friendship House began as a cooperative effort by the American Baptist Church and the local Council of Churches. Our first facility, a Quonset hut donated by Bradley University and dubbed "Operation Friendship House", generated community excitement and served as both a missionary residence and recreation center.

The Friendship House Board took a leap of faith in 1957, securing the former Grace Presbyterian Church building at 800 NE Madison Avenue, acquiring ten times the amount of program space. By 1963, Peoria Friendship House of Christian Service had grown to serve nearly 150 families and provide over 23,000 contacts. Today through Community Support, Sunday Blessings (soup kitchen), Children's Programs- After School Program and Summer Camp, Latino Outreach, RSVP, and Dress for Success Peoria, more than 10,000 individuals are served each year.

The partnership of this inner city ministry includes American Baptist, United Methodist Church, Disciples of Christ, the Presbytery of Peoria, and the Congregational-Christian Conference, providing the ecumenical base of support for the Friendship House programs which continues today. However, our closest ties are with the National Ministries of the American Baptist Church.

Currently located at 800 NE Madison, Peoria Friendship House of Christian Service continues to offer programs to the community and minister to the needs of Near Northside individuals and families.

Just as all those in need are welcome to the services of Friendship House, so are individuals who would like to know more about what we do and see programs in action. Once a month we offer a "Welcome to Our House" session, a simple meal, building tour, and insights from key staff. Please call if you would like to join us- we look forward to meeting you!