Family Promise of Midland, a non-profit established to address family homelessness, has seen an increase in the number of clients who are struggling, according to Case Manager Jerry Villarreal. The organization operates seven duplexes, and provides transitional housing and support services for families in crisis, helping them work toward economic stability.
Villarreal said clients of their two- year program named “Family Forward” are struggling to build their savings accounts because of inflation.
“The Family Forward program assists families with housing and utilities assistance, but families must save a minimum of 20 percent of their income in the program,” he said.
Villarreal said that "families are struggling to save because of inflation on food, vehicle expenses, or other issues” and that “vehicle repairs can drain your savings quickly." Villarreal added that Family Promise of Midland understands the family's plight and assists where it can.
According to Executive Director Tom Miller, Family Promise of Midland started in 2010 after local residents recognized the need for housing programs that keep families together. "Families can stay for up to two years while working towards independence," Miller said.
During a tour of the facility, Miller and Villarreal told Midland Times that the housing complex includes a therapy play center, storage areas, an enclosed park, and a half basketball court for families.
Family Promise of Midland collaborates with local resources to address the root causes of family homelessness, combining shelter with case management to help families rebuild their lives with new skills and ongoing support.
For more information about Family Promise of Midland and its programs, visit familypromiseofmidland.com.
