People sitting at round tables in a large indoor community center or gymnasium, some eating and some waiting in line at a food service area, during what appears to be a community meal event.

Preserving DIGNITY.
Restoring HOPE.
Welcoming ALL.

Who
we are

At Anchor Lancaster, we believe in the power of compassion and community to create lasting change. Every day, we serve as a beacon of hope for those in need, providing breakfast, support, and essential services to our neighbors experiencing homelessness or hardship.

We’re working hard to build a stronger, more connected Lancaster.

A woman with gray hair and glasses is embracing a man wearing a gray knit beanie and headphones, both appear emotional as they hug tightly.

What we offer

Two people sitting at a table, smiling and eating breakfast. The woman on the left has short dark hair, glasses, and is wearing a light pink top. The man on the right has short light hair and a beard, and is wearing a brown sweater. They are enjoying their meal with cups, dishes, and drinks on the table.

Free Breakfast

Each morning, Anchor Lancaster provides a warm, nutritious breakfast to individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship. This meal offers more than just nourishment—it’s a moment of connection and community, helping our guests start their day with dignity.

Shower with white rectangular tiles, a circular showerhead, and a built-in shelf with two bottles of body wash.

Showers

We offer hot showers as a way for guests to care for themselves and feel refreshed. Access to personal hygiene is an essential part of restoring dignity, and we’re honored to provide this service as part of our commitment to the well-being of those we serve.

Person folding a pile of clothes on a carpeted floor, wearing a striped shirt and jeans.

Laundry Services

We provide free laundry services, washing clothes for our guests to help them feel clean, comfortable, and confident. Access to clean clothing is an important part of maintaining dignity and can make a significant difference in someone’s day as they work toward stability.

Two people sitting at a table in a casual setting, one working on a laptop with machines and a fire extinguisher in the background.

Case Management

Anchor Lancaster’s case managers offer personalized support to help guests navigate challenges such as unemployment, housing, and health issues. Our caseworkers work one-on-one with individuals to set goals, connect them with resources, and help them move toward long-term stability.

Medical beds and chairs set up inside an industrial-style room with white brick walls and three tall windows

Day Center

Our Day Center provides a safe, warm space for individuals during the day, especially during harsh weather conditions. Guests can rest, receive support, and access various services, helping them take steps toward greater stability and independence.

A woman sitting at a table with medical supplies, including a red medical bag and a stethoscope around her neck, in a busy indoor setting with other people in the background.

Access to Medical Services

We partner with healthcare professionals from Penn State Health, UPMC, and Penn Medicine, who visit Anchor Lancaster regularly to offer free medical support. Doctors and nurses come several days a week to provide care, and every third Tuesday, the Women’s Medical Van visits, offering essential services such as HPV vaccines, pap smears, pregnancy tests, and more. These visits ensure our guests have access to the medical care they need.

How you can help

  • Various US dollar bills and coins scattered on a surface.

    Give Financially

    Your financial support creates opportunities for a stronger, brighter community.

    Give
  • People working at a food serving line, serving breakfast or lunch, wearing hairnets and gloves.

    Volunteer Your Time

    Join our dedicated team and make an immediate impact.

    Volunteer
  • A black background with a white sticker that reads 'my wishlist amazon.com' with an orange arrow underneath the word 'amazon'.

    Donate Items

    Check out our Amazon wish list and help us support to those who need it most!

    Donate Items
  • A person holding a black tray with scrambled eggs, a small serving of bacon, an empty white bowl, a metal spoon, and a paper napkin.

    Stay Connected

    Follow us on social media, subscribe to our newsletter, or attend our events!

    Connect

Community Impact in 2024

 41,641

meals served

6,013

showers provided

6,966

volunteer hours

40-50

daily Day Center guests

8,000

pairs of socks provided

Soul Stories

“The staff at Anchor Lancaster goes above and beyond because they truly care about the people they serve. If it weren’t for Anchor…man, I don’t know where I’d be.” -Don

Close-up of someone wearing sneakers and jeans, in black and white.

“I was really guarded at first, but everybody has been supportive and helpful in their guidance. [Connor] really helped me a lot, and I’m excited to move in today! I’ll have my own bed and three meals a day.” -Gary

Close-up view of a person's black shoes and denim jeans from a low angle on a carpeted floor, with a wooden chair in the background.

 “If I didn’t have the overnight shelter or Anchor, I don’t know where I’d be. I’m just glad I have somewhere to go.” -Cheri

Close-up of black combat boots worn by a person standing on a concrete floor, with a desk and chairs in the background.

Make an Impact.

Contact Us

Have questions? Want to get involved? Reach out! We’d love to hear from you.

info@anchorlancaster.org

717-287-0958

People serving food at a community event or cafeteria line, wearing red shirts, white hats, and gloves.