About Open Door

Many missionaries, after their term of service, feel a deep desire to continue their spiritual service and to give back to their community and church. Yet many return home to areas and circumstances that leave them little hope of moving beyond the conditions of poverty common to their native locale.

Such was the case in Cambodia where local church leaders came together to provide housing for returned missionaries and support in helping them secure employment and to further their education. They rented two homes in Phnom Pen. The program proved successful, but local leaders were unable to sustain the financial rental commitment. Thus, the idea of Open Door International (or Open Door) was conceived which included the ability to expand to other countries.

Through Open Door qualifying candidates are provided temporary housing (up to four years) at a location within their home country that is safe and provides greater resources and opportunities. Approved residents are provided housing free of charge. They are also required to provide for personal necessities such as food, clothing, internet, computer, etc. unless otherwise directed by Area Presidencies and local leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ.

Open Door residents create and follow a written plan leading them toward fiscal, spiritual and occupational independence.