Family Promise of Monroe applies for $55K state grant

Saturday, May 21, 2011

The Family Promise of Monroe County has applied for a $55,310 grant from the 2011 Emergency Shelter Grant Program headed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

According to Faith Waters, vice president of the board of Family Promise, this is the third time the organization applied for this grant, and it will sustain the center for two years, providing $27,655 each year.

Family Promise is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization that helps homeless families by providing shelter, meals and support services, all offered solely to Monroe County needy families.

“All grant money will be used for the Family Promise’s Day Center located in the Wesleyan Church annex in Stroudsburg,” Waters said.

The Family Promise of Monroe County has provided care for 41 families, 49 adults, and 70 children, while also providing 18,000 miles of transportation, 2,180 hours of counseling and 6,380 meals.

The grant will cover rent and utility costs, along with consumable supplies, hygiene products, computer upgrades, snow removal, building insurance and criminal and Department of Motor Vehicle background checks for incoming families

All services are given by volunteer churches in the Monroe County area, so funds for the organization rely greatly on state grants and fundraisers.

One fundraiser, a yard sale and flea market, is being held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at 1285 North 9 St., Stroudsburg.

Vendors for this event are also needed, and can call 570-421-7447 to reserve a 10-feet by 10-feet space, which can be reserved for $10, or two spaces for $15.

Family Promise is unique in that all children, wives and husbands are housed together. Services are provided until the family in need is able to get back on its feet, Waters explained.

People who need help from Family Promise can call 570-420-8589

Source: by AMANDA TYLER, Pocono Record