Affordable Housing, Food Access & Community Support

In Denver, buildings that were once vacant, deteriorating, or unsafe have been transformed into places of stability and hope through the work of REAL Life Community Services.

What began in 2014 with the $1 gift of a former church property has grown into a community-wide revitalization effort serving families throughout the Cocalico School District and northern Lancaster County.

Lighthouse Community Center

A Hub for Connection in the Cocalico Community

The Lighthouse Community Center hosts:

  • Youth events

  • Recovery meetings

  • Faith-based gatherings

  • Community programs

It continues to be a welcoming space for connection, growth, and support in Denver, PA.

Glory House

Transitional Housing for Single Parents

REAL Life provides a transitional home in Denver, PA for single parents moving out of homelessness.

Families may stay up to 12 months while receiving:

  • Financial budgeting guidance

  • Parenting support

  • Job readiness training

  • One-on-one mentorship

This program helps prevent long-term homelessness and builds lasting independence.

The Declaration House

Affordable Housing in Denver, PA

In 2016, REAL Life partnered with Tenfold to purchase the former Denver House — a deteriorated 27-room hotel built in 1863.

After more than 2,000 volunteer hours and a full renovation, the building reopened in 2019 as The Declaration House, now providing:

  • 10 affordable long-term apartments

  • Street-level commercial space, currently occupied by Willow Creek Discount Grocery

  • Healthcare access through Union Community Care

  • Ministry offices

This project created a true community hub in downtown Denver, PA — combining housing, healthcare, and support services in one location.

Warehouse 916

Food Pantry in Denver, PA

Located behind the Declaration House, Warehouse 916 is the central hub for food programs serving families in the Cocalico School District.

Programs include:

Cocalico Food Pantry – A client-choice food pantry available to qualified families.
Power Packs Project – Weekly meal kits and staple foods that help children stay nourished and ready to learn.

Warehouse 916 strengthens local families by improving food security and providing ongoing support through professional case management.

Royer House

Expanding Affordable Housing in Downtown Denver

As housing needs increased during the pandemic, REAL Life renovated the Royer House to add two studio apartments, expanding affordable housing options in northern Lancaster County.

All residential units are currently occupied.

First-floor renovations are now underway to create additional downtown commercial space — pairing economic growth with a people-first vision for revitalization.

Revitalizing Buildings. Restoring Lives.

Through strategic redevelopment, strong partnerships, and community support, REAL Life Community Services continues to transform downtown Denver into a place where families can find affordable housing, food assistance, healthcare access, and hope — all in one neighborhood.