Prevention
The ultimate goal of Family Promise of the Coastal Empire is to end family homelessness. Prevention plays a critical role in this mission. Poverty alleviation and the reduction of debt are long-term goals that make up part of the strategy to support families. Other Family Promise programs (Shelter Diversion, Shelter, Stabilization, and Community Services) address families’ long-term goals. Prevention, then, specifically aims to keep families in their homes. Prevention is not paying bills when a family is months away from a possible eviction. Prevention is not putting people in motels--this is providing Shelter. Family Promise Prevention assistance should help families avoid an imminent loss of housing and remain stably housed.
SHELTER
Our guests are housed in one of two main shelter models: rotational and static. The rotational shelter model engages a network of community partners, often faith communities, to house families with children in different locations each week. The static site model also engages community partners, including faith communities, but the location does not change. It is a fixed site for the families to stay, and volunteers to provide the hospitality at the site.
Shelter Diversion
Shelter Diversion supports families experiencing homelessness and seeking shelter to either a) restore housing, or b) identify a safe place to avoid entering shelter. At its core, the practice is trauma-informed, client-centered, and sees homelessness as a crisis that needs to be mediated. Shelter Diversion can encompass a variety of practices, but central to the work are both case management and financial assistance. At every step, Shelter Diversion helps guests work toward permanent housing solutions and continue to live as independent, happy, and healthy families.
stabilization
Stabilization is necessary to reduce the rate of returns to shelter by families. By staying engaged with families as they exit shelter, we can limit the trauma experienced by children and parents without homes. Stabilization also improves quality of life for families served. It helps families navigate secondary traumas: financial strains, employment barriers, unstable mental health, and previous debts. Finally, such programs contribute to stronger community relationships; Family Promise Stabilization programs can strengthen relationships with landlords, community partners, faith communities, and employers.
