A bedroom at Baltimore’s House of Valor. The home is built on mutual respect, accountability, and community, not just housing for women. Photo credit: Tanya Taylor

Eight years ago, Tanya Taylor found herself without stable housing. During that time, Taylor rented rooms from two different landlords.

“While I was grateful to have a roof over my head, neither environment felt safe, peaceful, or truly stable. I experienced firsthand how unsettling it can be to live somewhere that doesn’t feel like home, especially when you’re simply trying to get back on your feet,” said Taylor.

After Taylor regained her footing, her previous housing experiences remained in her thoughts. She took action to create a resource for women who were striving to access a safe, dignified place to rebuild their lives.

(L-r) Tanya Taylor and husband, Dr. Linwood R. Taylor.
Photo credit: Seth Jackson

The Birth of Baltimore’s House of Valor

Founded in September of 2025, Taylor founded Baltimore’s House of Valor.

“I wanted to create more than just housing — I wanted to create a calm, welcoming, and supportive home where women who may be facing challenges such as an eviction, bad credit, or a tough season could still live with dignity, peace, and stability while they rebuild,” Taylor added.

Taylor’s daughter believed in her mother’s vision so deeply that she put up half of the money to help get House of Valor off the ground. Taylor was also deeply supported by a woman from her church, “Miss Carole.” She generously donated the majority of Baltimore’s House of Valor’s furniture.

Baltimore’s House of Valor, located in Baltimore City, currently serves women like Bre S. who are seeking a safe, stable, and dignified place to live while they work to achieve stability and independence. Bre was living with her boyfriend before she needed a place to live.

What makes House of Valor different?

House of Valor is not a traditional transitional housing program with strict timelines or rigid requirements. 

“What we provide is stability — a safe, peaceful home where they can save money, restore confidence, and focus on their next chapter without the constant stress of housing insecurity,” Taylor stated.

House of Valor’s residents must have a stable and reliable source of income, whether that comes from employment, Social Security, SSDI, or another consistent form of support.

Additionally, Baltimore’s House of Valor operates on a month-to-month lease, with a minimum stay of one month.

“This structure offers flexibility while still providing stability for women who are served. There is no long-term contract, allowing residents the freedom to stay as long as the home continues to meet their needs and they remain in good standing. The monthly financial commitment is $750 for a shared room and $950 for a private room. These rates include utilities, Wi-Fi, access to laundry facilities, and the supportive environment that House of Valor is known for. Our goal is to keep housing affordable, while still maintaining a clean, peaceful, and well-run home,” Taylor noted.

Feminine products and toiletries and other perks are often available to help women stretch their income and catch up financially.

“When available, we also offer food as a courtesy, because food insecurity is more common than people realize, even among individuals with stable income,” said Taylor.

Another unique part of the home is the sense of community that sometimes includes Monday evening dinners (known as “fine dining” nights) when it is possible. Additionally, House of Valor is connected to Emmanuel Church International.

“We also make sure women know they have access to spiritual support and optional transportation to church on Sundays,”  said Taylor.

Connect With Baltimore’s House of Valor

Taylor’s husband, Dr. Linwood R. Taylor, pastor of Emmanuel Church International, stated that Baltimore’s House of Valor is funded by rent from the residents. However, support from nonprofits such as toiletries, food, social and entertainment support donations are desired.

Unhoused women or people would greatly benefit if more churches became involved in housing assistance.

“There is a tremendous need, and it is a natural fit for the mission/vision of churches to serve the underserved and the’ least of us’ in our community,” Dr. Taylor stated.

“Currently, Baltimore’s House of Valor has five beds available. Once the home reaches full capacity, the long-term vision is to expand and open a similar residence for men as well. Everyone deserves access to safe, dignified housing, and our goal is to continue meeting that need—one home at a time,” said Tanya Taylor.

Dr. Taylor shared that what he and his wife do to support women who need a safe place when they have fallen on hard times is rewarding. 

“To see them smile, to see them come into the House of Valor and to see that there is a sense of hope that they display that gives them a feeling that life is now better for them makes it all worthwhile,” said Dr. Taylor.

Women who are interested in housing at Baltimore’s House of Valor can email houseofvalorhome@gmail.com or text or call 443-489-6511.

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