COVID-19 Update
Our plan for a rotational model of housing families in our congregations has been greatly impacted by COVID-19. In the meantime, Family Promise of San Joaquin County will be working diligently with local organizations that provide food, clothing and temporary shelter for families experiencing homelessness. We are dedicated to supporting those hardest hit by COVID-19 and look forward to making a difference in the lives of these families.
At the heart of our program is sheltering to address the challenge of family homelessness by using existing community resources. Not only does this make the program cost efficient, it increases scalability.
The basic goal of Family Promise is not just about getting families into some form of housing, but also addressing the underlying issues that created the situation in the first place. Through the use of community resources we are able to provide short term housing solutions while also preparing families for the next steps.
HOW WE PROVIDE SHELTERS
Most larger communities have congregations that offer many services to the community already. These congregation can provide space to serve as temporary homes.
Additionally, congregation could act as Day Centers, where families:
- Can take showers
- Can participate in case management
- Use resources to look for housing and jobs
There are multiple options for transportation to get families from the host congregations to external Day Centers, if they are not located on premise.
Through the use of volunteers, other aspects of the program can be implemented without the need to create expensive shelters and other support facilities. This innovative approach truly makes a difference for families experiencing homelessness.
Volunteers are the core of the program. They share food, spend the night, play with children and lend their passion and expertise to help families get back on their feet. They prove that passionate,motivated people can help solve family homelessness.