A West Michigan nonprofit organization, Family Promise of West Michigan, has announced the termination of its Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN) program, which provided shelter for families through a partnership with local churches. This decision comes in response to a significant budget shortfall of $1 million, attributed to lower-than-expected donations.
Key Takeaways
- Family Promise of West Michigan is ending its Interfaith Hospitality Network program.
- The program provided overnight shelter through a rotating list of area churches.
- The decision follows a $1 million budget gap due to insufficient donations.
- The nonprofit will increase the number of rooms at the Mel Trotter facility from 27 to 33.
- IHN served 100 families in recent years, with a high success rate in securing permanent housing.
Background of Family Promise
Family Promise of West Michigan has been a vital resource for families experiencing homelessness in the greater Grand Rapids area. The IHN program was designed to offer not just shelter, but also meals and essential resources to families in need. Over the years, it partnered with 40 congregations, providing a community-based approach to addressing homelessness.
Impact of the Program
The IHN program has had a significant impact on the families it served. According to Family Promise, the program helped 90% of families find permanent housing, with 85% of those families remaining housed two years later. This success rate highlights the effectiveness of the program in providing stability and support to vulnerable families.
Future Plans
In light of the budget cuts, Family Promise will focus on expanding its services at the Mel Trotter facility. The increase in available rooms from 27 to 33 aims to accommodate more families in need of immediate shelter. CEO Tenisa Frye emphasized the importance of maintaining relationships with local congregations, stating, "The thing that’s been so valuable and important to us is our relationships with the congregations."
Community Response
The decision to cut the IHN program has raised concerns among community members and supporters of Family Promise. Many are worried about the potential loss of a critical resource for families facing homelessness. The organization has not yet provided detailed plans on how it will continue to support families in the wake of this significant change.
Conclusion
The closure of the Interfaith Hospitality Network program marks a challenging moment for Family Promise of West Michigan and the families it serves. As the organization pivots to adapt to its new reality, the community will be watching closely to see how it continues to address the pressing issue of homelessness in the area.
