FAITH Transitional Housing Project

What is FAITH?

Faith - "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen..." (Hebrews 11:1)

The FAITH Transitional Housing Project is a partnership of Faith-Based Communities and Service Providers working together to provide housing and support to families transitioning out of homelessness.

Homelessness Affects the Community

In the counties of St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren the homeless population, defined as families and individuals without permanent housing, have very few options for escaping the vicious cycle of homelessness.  Emergency Shelters, if they have space available, usually limit the length of stay to between 1 to 10 days.  Many families are forced to migrate between different shelter facilities and temporary emergency housing accommodations because of time limitations.  In many cases, the shelters are not suitable for families with children.  The educational development of school-aged children can be negatively affected by the need to frequently change school systems during the school year or the inability of the children to attend school.

What is Transitional Housing?

Transitional Housing provides an opportunity for families to move beyond emergency shelter into a more independent living situation.  Typically, families live in transitional housing for up to 24 months.  Transitional housing is NOT a permanent solution or an overnight shelter.  Transitional housing programs work most effectively in communities where affordable housing is available or developed as part of a comprehensive plan.  The uspport services connected with a Transitional Housing program focus on building family self-sufficiency through workforce placement and training programs, adult-education programs, financial literacy, and other services geared toward building individual independence.

Families Benefit!

Most Transitional Housing programs focus on families (those with children) earning less than 50% of the area median income.  Transitional housing is dispersed throughout local communities, in single family homes, apartment complexes, townhouses, etc.

F.A.I.T.H. - The Beginning

Leaders in the faith community educate their congregation to the seriousness of homelessness through their preaching and ministry.  The leaders also challenge their congregation to become personally involved, take a stand and help improve living conditions for God's children.  The leaders bring awareness to their congregation asking those who own property to consider becoming involved in the program.

How Can You Become Involved?

For additional information, a formal presentation, or to volunteer, please contact 636-441-1302.