New Year, Renewed Mission: Tackling Family Homelessness in 2025

As the calendar turns to 2025, Family Promise of Cobb County reflects on a year of challenges overcome and lives transformed. We’re excited to embark on a new chapter, with a steadfast commitment to addressing family homelessness in our community. This year, we’re not just continuing our work—we’re amplifying it. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Reflecting on 2024: Successes and Milestones

Before looking ahead, let’s celebrate the strides we made in 2024. Thanks to the unwavering support of our volunteers, donors, and community partners, we:

- Helped 12 families transition from homelessness to stable housing.

- Expanded our rotational housing program, adding two new host congregations.

- Provided over 2,200 nights of sleep to families in our shelters.

- Served over 73 individuals, consisting of 25 adults and 48 children.

These successes underscore the power of community collaboration. Every step forward is a testament to the dedication and compassion of people like you.

Each milestone represents more than just numbers; it’s a family’s story of resilience, a child’s laughter echoing in a new home, and a parent’s sigh of relief knowing they’re supported. For example, 2024 graduate, Flora—a single mother and her two children—entered our program after losing their home. Through working towards stability with our caseworker, they now live in a safe apartment. These stories fuel our mission and inspire us to dream bigger.

Understanding the Challenge: Family Homelessness in Cobb County

Family homelessness remains a pressing issue in Cobb County and across the nation. According to recent data:

• 1 in 16 children in Georgia experiences homelessness each year (National Center for Homeless Education).

• The average age of a homeless individual in the U.S. is just 9 years old (National Coalition for the Homeless).

• Rising housing costs and economic instability continue to push families to the brink.

These statistics highlight the urgent need for intervention. But what do these numbers mean in real terms? For families experiencing homelessness, the challenges go beyond a lack of shelter. Parents often struggle to find stable employment while ensuring their children’s education is uninterrupted. Kids face difficulties concentrating in school, grappling with the uncertainty of where they’ll sleep next.

In Cobb County, the lack of affordable housing exacerbates these challenges. According to a recent housing report, over 30% of renters in the area spend more than half their income on rent, leaving little room for emergencies or savings (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development). This housing insecurity can quickly spiral into homelessness for families already living paycheck to paycheck.

Our Mission for 2025: Goals and Initiatives

In 2025, Family Promise of Cobb County is setting ambitious goals to expand our reach and deepen our impact:

1. Serve More Families: Increase the number of families we support, ensuring more children and parents have access to safe, stable housing.

2. Expand Transitional Housing: Partner with Glory Haus to open a tiny home village of 15 transitional homes.

3. Enhance Support Services: Offer more workshops on financial literacy, job readiness, and parenting skills.

4. Advocate for Policy Change: Work with local leaders to address systemic issues contributing to homelessness, such as affordable housing shortages.

   
   

To achieve these goals, we’ll need to strengthen our existing partnerships and forge new ones. We’re also investing in training for our staff and volunteers to ensure we’re equipped to meet the complex needs of the families we serve.

Stories of Hope: Successes That Inspire

Every family we serve has a unique story, and every success is a reminder of why we do what we do. Let us introduce you to the H family, a family of five who entered our program last year after losing their home.

With the support of our case manager, Louise Sterling, they secured stable housing within four months. Today, both parents are employed, their children are thriving in school, and they’re saving for their future. Stories like theirs remind us that hope is always within reach.

How You Can Make a Difference in 2025

Family Promise of Cobb County’s work is only possible because of people like you. Here are three ways you can help us achieve our mission this year:

1. Volunteer Your Time: Whether you’re interested in mentoring, providing meals, or helping with events, there’s a role for everyone.

2. Make a Donation: Your financial support provides families with essentials like housing, food, and transportation. Every dollar makes a difference.

3. Spread the Word: Follow us on social media, share our posts, and talk to your friends and family about our mission. Awareness is the first step toward action.

   
   

Looking Ahead: A Year of Hope and Transformation

As we step into 2025, we’re filled with hope for what’s to come. Together, we can create a community where every family has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s make this the year we turn the tide on family homelessness.

Are you ready to join us? Visit Family Promise of Cobb County to learn more, get involved, or make a donation today.

Be part of the solution. Together, we can make 2025 a year of hope, stability, and transformation for families in need. Join us today.