Special Feb. Offering: Family Promise of Roane County
Updated: Feb 5
Family Promise of Roane County works in collaboration with faith-based organizations, civic groups, and concerned neighbors to shelter, nourish, transport, and assist families with children who are experiencing homelessness. It is an affiliate of the national Family Promise organization which is a non-profit committed to helping homeless families achieve lasting independence.
Local social service agencies refer families to Family Promise. Host faith-based congregations provide overnight lodging, meals, and hospitality during a family’s stay. (There are 7 host congregations.) A Day Center, located in Rockwood, is the hub of case management. It has resources including phones, internet, and serves as an address for receipt of mail; has laundry and shower facilities; has a comfortable homelike setting with sofas and chairs and a play area for pre-school children. Older children attend school during their stay. Transportation for families is provided by a program van. Volunteers are the heart of the program.
In 2020, Family Promise of Roane County helped approximately 74 families remain in their homes; they also sheltered four families. The agency continues to provide case management and coordinate with multiple social service groups to provide pathways to jobs and permanent housing.