About CCA

Christian Community Action of Porter County, Indiana was incorporated in 1964. Its mission was to help those in need throughout their communities. The not-for-profit organization offers safe havens for the homeless at Spring Valley Shelter, care for mentally ill women at Greenwich House and financial support for families through the Emergency Assistance Program. We not only provide temporary solutions for individuals and families, but we also offer education and support services to help guide clients to long-term living success.

1964

Christian Community Action, or CCA began in 1964 when four churches (1st Christian, 1st Methodist, 1st Presbyterian and St. Paul Catholic) answered the call from Immanuel Lutheran to to assist chronically, mentally ill woman released from iInstitutional care to reacclimate into society. They initially acquired a home on Greenwich Street before moving to the corner of Brown Street and College Avenue where it served until 2008.

1980's

In the 80's, CCA, along with its supporters discovered another need in our community – to help the homeless. Taking note that existing services for the homeless were not designed to help whole families, CCA formed Spring Valley Shelter – based at the former Spring Valley Motel on US 30. The facility provided a homeless family with a single room and bath. The staff also provided counseling, case management, and classes to begin rebuilding their lives and future.

1990's

By the 90’s, with the help of the United Way, CCA began an Emergency Assistance program to help families dealing with an unplanned financial hardship. Through monetary support, the program temporarily helps families keep their homes through their emergency.

2006

In 2006, Spring Valley moved to its current location. Its 28-apartment complex provides families with a safe, comfortable apartment and productive environment while rebuilding their lives, restoring their family’s independence and creating a positive outlook for their future.

2008

As CCA strives to aid individuals suffering from chronic mental illness and end homelessness, we have kicked-off a new initiative – The 1,000 Days – 1,000 Lives Transformed Campaign.

Beginning August 1, 2008 and announced publically August 19, CCA entered into a new era in which we actively develop partnerships with agencies and organizations to join our mission – to transform lives and end homelessness in Porter County. We look forward to creating opportunities for those in need and contributing to a united community for a healthy, productive society.

In December, 2008, CCA’s Greenwich House Program was closed and the remaining ladies moved into Porter-Starke Services' Lifehouse Program. Several factors combined in the decision. There were two primary factors. The first the population needing the group home environment as part of their treatment plan was dramatically reduced. The other revolved around a change in the way Medicaid reimbursed treatment leaving a major gap in the costs of running Greenwich House.

2009

The fiscally prudent move will enable CCA to maintain the integrity of all its programs. In addition, it has allowed us to focus on meeting other needs that aren't being served in our community. In March, CCA will be launching a new, collaborative program to serve many of the families that we are currently not able help immediately through Spring Valley and Emergency Assistance.