Emmaus Homes was founded in 1893 in Marthasville, Mo., when a group of pastors and lay people from the surrounding churches of the Evangelical Synod of the West decided to use their vacated seminary buildings to serve individuals with developmental disabilities. As a reflection of their Christian faith, the founders of Emmaus attempted to care for those in need, while recognizing each person’s worth and unique qualities and creating a spirit of community. In 1901, Emmaus opened its St. Charles campus to meet the vast need for services to people with developmental disabilities closer to St. Louis.

As society came to better understand developmental disabilities and the contributions people with disabilities could make to the community, Emmaus’ programs changed and grew. While some individuals still reside on the Emmaus campuses, many now live in group homes in the community. Today, Emmaus serves residents in 40 homes at its two campuses and throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area. Programs have been developed to address individuals’ needs on a variety of levels, allowing Emmaus residents to become more actively involved with the communities around them.

Now a mission of the United Church of Christ's Council for Health & Human Service Ministries (CHHSM), Emmaus remains a faith-based organization generously supported by churches of many faiths throughout the country.