One of the reasons this program is so successful
is that we don’t simply focus on a housing
search. We deal with the issues that led
to their homelessness in the first place.

Working poor families are vulnerable, particularly in these troubled times. Many are currently unemployed. They may not be able to pay utility bills or rent and they don’t qualify for government assistance. They have no safety net. As a result, many become homeless.

HomeFront's FreshStart is not just a program—it’s a commitment to make sure that every family with children has a roof over their heads. It provides short-term housing and services to homeless working poor families and is designed to help families find a permanent home. We look at all options including buying time for a family on the verge of becoming homeless through family counseling with extended family members. Currently our program has four dedicated apartments and the ability to secure other apartments as the need arises. FreshStart  gives families needed stability while they regain financial self-sufficiency and address the issues that caused their homelessness.

How it Works

Many of the families are housed in comfortable apartments within Mercer County. If a family’s needs can better be served in a more secure and structured setting, they are placed at the Family Preservation Center, HomeFront’s short-term shelter. In either case, families are in transitional housing and have a period of stability. During this period, they receive support services to help them build the foundation for a permanent home.

Our support services help them address the life issues that led to their homelessness. We customize our services to their individual needs, strengths and abilities. Sometimes a client just needs to be pointed in the right direction and armed with targeted tools and guidance. In most cases, however, the case manager will take a more hands-on approach while working to resolve issues and identify problems that might cause a future crisis. By meeting their needs at this critical juncture, we prevent them from spiraling into persistent homelessness.

We also work with each family to find permanent housing. Unfortunately, obtaining permanent housing can be very difficult for a client with very limited financial resources. In cases like this, we intensify our efforts, advocating with government and private housing agencies and church groups to help us. Often, we have to be creative in finding workable housing options such as shared living arrangements and other non-traditional options.

Successful Solution

Over the 12 years since FreshStart began, hundreds of families have been restored to independence. The proof is in these families, our former clients.