ABOUT

WHY DWELLING HOUSE OF HOPE

The name "Dwelling House of Hope" was born from a simple but powerful vision: to create a place where individuals and families facing life's toughest challenges could find refuge, compassion, and a fresh start. It reflects both the physical space and the sense of emotional and spiritual shelter we aim to provide

The “dwelling” symbolizes more than just a physical home. It represents a sanctuary, a place where people can rest, heal, and rebuild. A place where food, support, and kindness flow freely.

The word “house” is not just about a building—it’s about the feeling of community. It speaks to the connection between people, the relationships that are formed when we come together to share and care for one another. Whether it was cooking meals for the hungry or providing a safe haven for foster children and individuals struggling with addiction, Dwelling House of Hope became a symbol of safety, belonging, and transformation. Levenia has supported foster children by meeting all their needs and also assists low-income single mothers with access to nutritious food


And, of course, there’s "hope." Hope is the cornerstone of everything we do. In a world where so many face hardship, hope is often the first thing to fade. But through small acts of kindness, through offering food, support, and a listening ear, we help to restore that hope—one person, one family at a time. We believe that with hope, anything is possible. It gives people the strength to overcome challenges and the courage to pursue a better tomorrow. Levenia cooks and provides healthy meals to homeless individuals and thos stuggling with addiction

The name "Dwelling House of Hope" is a reminder of why we do what we do: to provide a safe space for healing, to offer nourishment in times of hunger, and to be a beacon of hope in a world that can sometimes feel dark. It's more than a name; it's the promise of a brighter future for all those we serve

Dwelling House of Hope Clients receiving a word of Hope on a Thursday morning before receiving their box of food

Pantry in the basement

Volunteers at the basement pantry

When I first started this journey, it began in the basement of my own home—a humble, yet warm space where I could offer what I had to those in need.
— Levenia Furusa

Meet the Team

Levenia Furusa

Founder & Executive Director

Levenia Furusa, born and raised in Zimbabwe, embodies a lifetime of service inspired by her father’s work with orphaned children. After moving to the U.S. in 1995, she was struck by the existence of poverty in a first-world country and committed herself to making a difference. In 2010, she founded the Dwelling House of Hope (DHOH), which began as a food distribution effort from her basement and has since grown into a lifeline for thousands, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. DHOH now serves over 23,500 individuals annually and partners with local organizations to address food insecurity, homelessness, and community well-being.

Levenia's impact extends beyond DHOH. She is a founding member of the Lowell African Cultural Association, a certified foster care provider, a trainer in emergency response, and a key figure in numerous local and state coalitions tackling hunger, housing, and health equity. Recognized with multiple awards, including the Greater Lowell Community Foundation's Community Connector Award, her work continues to transform lives across the Merrimack Valley. Levenia’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to lifting up underserved communities.

    • Levenia Lee Furusa (Executive Director), Lowell, MA; Dwelling House of Hope, Executive Director

    • Dee Woghiren (Director), Tyngsborough, MA; Comcast,

    • Lila Vorn (Director), Lowell, MA; Fresenius Medical Care, Association Operation Claims Specialist

    • Fadzai Pasikwababiri (President), Billerica, MA; Maxi Healthcare Services, Inc., Marketing Director

    • Shammer Kitiibwa (Director), Chelmsford, MA; MIT Lincoln Labs, IT

  • Dan O’connor

    MaryLou White

  • Sebastiao Cordeiro

    Angel Chikumbirike

    Brendan Urtecho

    Josh Geggis

    Ivone Peace Afayo

    Carlos Rumaldo

    Amilcar Gonzalez