Dear Friends of Family Promise,
The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic affect everyone, including homeless families and people who are hungry. Family Promise is in the business of helping all those people, and we are continuing to do that even in these trying days.
Network, New Leaf, and Post Shelter Programs
We are continuing to help families experiencing homelessness:
A week ago, the rotating Network closed until further notice when the last family was able to move in with a friend, reducing their risk of exposure. We had moved the family to the Family Center with the help of volunteers from Christ Episcopal Church in Ridgewood but realized even those arrangements made the family and volunteers vulnerable.
Our case managers continue to work with the families from the Network, New Leaf Apartment, and Post Shelter programs via Zoom and by phone each day. Families are exploring online courses to make the most of the opportunity this time has given them. As challenges of employment, childcare, and food security arise, our case managers are available to help find solutions.
We also just accepted a mom and three children with no place to go. They are eager to be a part of our Network program so we are supporting them as they stay at a motel. Case management will be virtual as we do what we can to help this family.
And we are continuing our workshops for the families, albeit virtually. In fact, the families have been clear in their desire to keep the workshops going. "I always get something I need" said one participant, "but now we really need to support each other during this difficult time.”
A very different environment, but Family Promise is there for those who need help. This is what we do.
