Family Promise of Pierce County partners with Orting church for homelessness shelter initiative

During a recent government meeting in Orting, Washington, the CEO of Family Promise of Pierce County presented a compelling overview of the organization’s innovative approach to addressing homelessness in the region. Family Promise operates under a unique model that emphasizes local autonomy while aligning with national standards, allowing it to tailor its services to the specific needs of the community.

Since its inception just over a year ago, Family Promise of Pierce County has made significant strides in assisting families facing homelessness. The organization has processed over 2,000 individuals and families, successfully housing 130 families through its small family shelter in Spanaway. Notably, only two of these families required HUD-funded vouchers, highlighting the program's focus on fostering self-sufficiency among its clients.

The CEO outlined three key components of their operational model: scattered site shelters, intensive case management, and leveraging technology. By utilizing small, scattered shelters rather than large congregate facilities, Family Promise aims to minimize risks for children and maintain stability in their lives. The organization also emphasizes active engagement, requiring families to participate in case management sessions and pursue employment or housing opportunities during the day.

A standout feature of Family Promise’s approach is its use of technology to expedite housing placements. With a substantial grant from Google, the organization employs an AI system that alerts families to available housing that meets their criteria, significantly reducing the time spent in shelters. The results speak for themselves: Family Promise boasts an average stay of just 26 days for families, compared to the county average of 67 days, and a 68% rate of exits to permanent housing.

In a significant development for the Orting community, Family Promise is collaborating with the Orting United Methodist Church to establish a three-family safe shelter. This initiative aims to provide immediate assistance to families in need, particularly those with children. Since January of last year, 11 families from Orting have sought help, with 17 children affected. Currently, seven families are on the waiting list for emergency shelter, underscoring the urgent need for such resources in the area.

The meeting highlighted the pressing issue of homelessness in Orting, particularly among families with children, where domestic violence is a leading cause of housing loss. The collaboration between Family Promise and local organizations aims to create a supportive environment that allows families to regain stability and remain connected to their communities.

As Family Promise of Pierce County continues to expand its services, the partnership with the Orting United Methodist Church represents a proactive step toward addressing homelessness locally. The community can anticipate further developments as this initiative unfolds, with the potential to significantly impact the lives of families in need.