Family Promise of Southern Ocean County

Since Family Promise of Southern Ocean County began in 2009, we have received close to 1000 referrals of families with children needing shelter just from our county. Many others are moving or are hidden homeless (people staying with family or friends) who also need a place to call home. Family Promise tries to build programs from existing resources so they can be implemented quickly, and without major start-up costs. Programs vary from community to community, reflecting local needs and resources. Four times per year, for one week at a time, our Hospitality Hosts (local congregations/civic organizations) provide overnight lodging, meals and hospitality to our guests. Through the efforts of volunteers, a variety of services are provided: cooking and serving meals, playing with children or helping with homework, and staying overnight. Our Day Center provides a homelike atmosphere for our guests. Guests have the amenities of a home where they can prepare for work or school or work with our case manager on finding jobs and housing. The Day Center has shower facilities and a washer and dryer. Since FPSOC is self-supporting, it is critical to maintain avenues of funding for the program needs.

The mission of Family Promise of Southern Ocean County is to reduce family homelessness in Southern Ocean County by empowering families to move steadily toward self-sufficiency collaborating with faith based and community organizations by providing shelter, meals and support services.