Beyond Shelter: How Family Promise of Cobb County Wraps Families in Stability and Support

Apr 28

2 min read

At Family Promise of Cobb County (FPCC), our mission extends far beyond providing temporary shelter. We offer a comprehensive, wraparound support system designed to address the multifaceted challenges families face during homelessness. By integrating housing, case management, education, and community engagement, we aim to create a stable environment where families can rebuild and thrive.

Understanding the Complexity of Family Homelessness

Family homelessness is a pressing issue in Cobb County and across the nation. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, families with children represent a significant portion of the homeless population, often due to factors like job loss, medical emergencies, or domestic violence. These situations are compounded by a lack of affordable housing and insufficient support systems.

Traditional shelters often separate family members, disrupting the family unit during an already traumatic time. FPCC's approach ensures that families stay together, recognizing the importance of familial bonds in fostering resilience and recovery.

Our Comprehensive, Wraparound Approach

FPCC's programs are designed to address both immediate needs and long-term stability:

1. Rotational Shelter Program

Our Rotational Shelter Program partners with local congregations to provide families with safe, temporary housing. Each week, families stay at a different host congregation, receiving meals and hospitality from volunteers. This model not only offers shelter but also fosters community support and engagement.

2. Day Center Services

The FPCC Day Center serves as a hub for families during the day, offering access to laundry facilities, showers, computers, and a play area for children. Here, families work with our case manager to develop personalized plans for achieving stability, including job searches and financial planning.

3. Transitional Housing

For families needing more time to secure permanent housing, our Transitional Housing provides a supportive environment. Residents receive ongoing case management and resources to help them move toward self-sufficiency.

4. Stabilization and Community Services

Beyond shelter, FPCC offers programs focused on long-term stability:

Financial Literacy: Teaching families budgeting and money management skills.
Employment Support: Assisting with job readiness and career development.
Health and Wellness: Providing resources for healthcare and promoting overall well-being.

5. Trauma-Informed Care

Recognizing that many families have experienced trauma, FPCC incorporates trauma-informed care into all services. This approach emphasizes safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment, helping families heal and build resilience.

The Impact of Our Approach

Family Promise of Cobb County's comprehensive services have led to significant outcomes:

Family Unity: By keeping families together during their time of need, we preserve essential support systems.
Community Engagement: Our volunteer-driven model fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Long-Term Stability: Through education, employment support, and ongoing case management, families are better equipped to maintain housing and avoid future homelessness.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Ending family homelessness requires a collective effort. Here's how you can help:

Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to support families directly.
Donate: Financial contributions help sustain our programs and expand our reach.https://www.fpcobb.org/give
Advocate: Raise awareness about family homelessness and support policies that promote affordable housing and social services.