Hope House has served the city of New Orleans, and especially the St. Thomas and Irish Channel neighborhoods, for over 50 years. Hope House programs and activities include the following: adult basic education and preparation for the high school equivalency test; emergency assistance - food pantry, rent and utility assistance, advice and referral; career development - job search, help in applying for college and technical training, and assistance with applications and renewals for food stamps unemployment benefits, and other assistance programs; coffee house and resource room for people who are homeless; prison visitation; education for justice workshops. In addition, Hope House works with other groups and organizations focused on social justice issues.

Each year, on Good Friday, Hope House sponsors The Way of the Cross/Way of Justice, an adaptation of the traditional Stations of the Cross. It matches each of the "stations" with an issue of social justice, reminding us that following in the footsteps of Jesus means caring for others and working for a more loving and just world.