About the Program
What is a Fisher House?
A place where military families can stay close to their loved ones — at no cost — during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
When a veteran or active-duty service member faces a serious medical challenge, their family faces it too. Travel costs, hotel bills, and distance from the hospital can add enormous stress to an already overwhelming situation.
The Fisher House program was created to solve exactly that problem. Named after Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, generous benefactors who funded the first houses in the early 1990s, Fisher Houses are comfortable, fully equipped homes built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers across the country.
Families stay free of charge — for as long as their loved one is receiving treatment — in a warm, supportive environment surrounded by others who truly understand what they are going through.
How the Program Works
Four things that make the Fisher House program unlike any other support for military families.
A Home Away From Home
Fisher Houses are comfortable, hotel-style homes built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. Families stay free of charge while their loved one receives medical treatment nearby.
Free of Charge
There is never a cost to stay at a Fisher House. The program is funded entirely through donations and the generosity of communities like ours — ensuring no family has to choose between being present and paying bills.
Built for Families
Each house features private bedrooms, shared kitchens, and comfortable common areas. Families can cook meals, do laundry, and live as normally as possible during an incredibly difficult time.
A National Network
The Fisher House Foundation operates more than 100 houses across the United States and abroad, located at major military installations and VA medical centers. Together they have saved military families over $690 million in lodging costs.
The VA Fisher House at Jefferson Barracks
Located on the historic grounds of Jefferson Barracks VA Medical Center, the St. Louis Fisher House has welcomed military families from across the region since opening its doors. The Friends of Fisher House St. Louis exists to support this house — raising funds, donating supplies, and volunteering to ensure every family feels at home.
No family should have to worry about where they will sleep when their loved one is fighting for their life.
— Fisher House Foundation Mission