HomeAid and Family Promise: A Model Partnership in Ending Homelessness
In the quest to end homelessness and provide hope for families in need, partnerships and collaborations play a pivotal role. HomeAid, a prominent nonprofit organization with affiliates across the United States, has joined forces with Family Promise, a national network dedicated to addressing family homelessness, to create a powerful alliance since 2009.
Together, we have worked on 14 developments (with 3 currently in development), valued at over $8.5 million, that serve as shining examples of what can be achieved when organizations come together to make a difference. In addition, over $1.4 million in in-kind donations have been provided through HomeAid’s builder captains, trade partners, and suppliers accounting for nearly 40% of the costs of the completed developments with some projects completed at 100% so there was no cost to Family Promise, allowing much-needed funds to be redirected towards programs and services.
This week, I had the opportunity to speak at the Western Regional Family Promise Meeting about our partnership with Family Promise and the future of our work together. Attended by 10 Family Promise affiliates from across the western United States, this further established our work together as we looked for solutions to homelessness through proactive partnerships.
A United Vision: HomeAid and Family Promise have recognized that the issue of family homelessness is a complex and pressing one that demands a multifaceted approach. By combining our expertise and resources, we have created a united vision that aims to provide comprehensive support to families experiencing homelessness, not only in Atlanta, Colorado, Hawaii, Houston, Los Angeles, Orange County, Orlando, Southern Nevada, and Utah but across the nation.
Collaborative Development Projects: One of the cornerstones of this partnership is the 14 development projects we have undertaken together. These developments have taken various forms, including Care Days, remodels, and ground-up construction. They go beyond mere infrastructure improvements; they symbolize the tangible impact that can be made when organizations collaborate effectively.
Care Days: These are events where volunteers come together to make immediate improvements to existing facilities, ensuring that they are safe and comfortable for families in need. Care Days are not only about fixing buildings but also about restoring hope.
Remodels: Revitalizing and refurbishing existing spaces to meet the unique needs of families experiencing or at risk of homelessness is an essential part of our partnership. These projects breathe new life into old facilities, making them conducive to the healing process.
Ground-Up Construction: In cases where new facilities are needed, HomeAid and Family Promise have worked together to construct purpose-built programmatic facilities and housing for families. These projects are emblematic of the commitment to tackling homelessness at its root.
The Value of $8.5 Million: The significance of the $8.5 million invested in these developments cannot be overstated. It represents not just a financial commitment but a commitment to the well-being of families in crisis. These funds have been directed toward creating safe, supportive, and nurturing environments where families can regain their self-sufficiency.
A National Partnership: This partnership extends far beyond local projects. It serves as a model for collaboration that can be replicated across the nation. By working closely with a national network like Family Promise, HomeAid has established a framework for cooperation that can be scaled up to address family homelessness on a broader scale. This kind of partnership showcases the power of unity in addressing complex societal challenges.
A Beacon of Hope: The HomeAid and Family Promise partnership isn't just about buildings; it's about providing a beacon of hope for families experiencing homelessness. By addressing their immediate needs for shelter and support and offering pathways to self-sufficiency, this partnership sets a shining example for other organizations and communities to follow.
Homelessness is a challenge that no single organization or entity can tackle on its own. The collaboration between HomeAid and Family Promise stands as a testament to the incredible impact that can be made when organizations unite for a common cause. By working together on development projects, sharing resources, and joining forces in advocacy, we provide a model partnership that has the potential to inspire and mobilize others to take action to end homelessness. Together, we are not just building structures; we are building futures without homelessness for families in need.
-Scott Larson
