A local nonprofit organization, Saranam, has opened its second location in Albuquerque, New Mexico, aimed at providing housing and support for homeless families. This new campus will initially house nine families, offering them a chance to stabilize their lives and pursue educational opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Saranam has been serving homeless families for 20 years, helping nearly 200 families find stability.
- The new campus will provide fully-furnished apartments for free for two years.
- Families are required to undergo a referral process, including background checks and interviews.
- The organization aims to double its intake capacity with the new location.
A Commitment to Helping Families
Saranam has a long-standing commitment to assisting families in need. For two decades, the organization has provided essential services to homeless families, allowing them to focus on education and personal development without the burden of housing costs. Tracy Weaver, the executive director of Saranam, emphasized the importance of this support, stating, "We provide a fully-furnished apartment for free for two years. But that really allows our families to not have to work, not have to pay the bills, so they can go to school and knock out as much education as they can while they’re with us."
Success Rates and Future Goals
The organization has reported impressive success rates among its participants. With a 77% success rate at exit and an 86% stability rate over time for alumni, Saranam is eager to expand its services. The new campus will allow for two classes of families to be accepted each year, with plans to increase capacity further in the future.
Application Process
To ensure that the families they serve are genuinely in need, Saranam has implemented a thorough application process. This includes:
- Referral from another agency or organization.
- Background checks.
- Drug tests.
- Interviews conducted by current families in the program.
This rigorous process helps maintain a supportive community within the program, fostering a sense of belonging and accountability among participants.
Future Expansion Plans
Currently, the new campus can accommodate nine families, but plans are in place to expand this capacity. By April 2025, Saranam expects to house an additional 14 families, bringing the total to 23 families at the new location. This expansion is part of Saranam’s broader mission to address the pressing need for homeless services in the community.
Weaver noted the challenges faced in opening the new campus, including delays in obtaining necessary permits. However, she remains optimistic about the future, stating, "There is a need out there that is really great to serve families who are homeless and that’s why we’re doing this. We’re doubling more than half our capacity to serve more families."
Conclusion
Saranam’s new campus represents a significant step forward in the fight against homelessness in Albuquerque. By providing stable housing and educational opportunities, the organization is not only helping families find shelter but also empowering them to build a better future. With plans for further expansion, Saranam is poised to make an even greater impact in the community.
