By Eric Wilson
WICHITA, Kan. – To help area homeless families with children find affordable housing, Family Promise of Greater Wichita is launching its Almost Home initiative. Almost Home partners with local landlords to reduce housing costs by offering affordable rent so the families can achieve permanent housing. Landlords agree to donate use of a home or charge rent based on a percentage of a family’s income.
A mother and two teenaged children, the first family served by Almost Home, received the keys to their home in early July. The housing was made possible thanks to a generous local landlord who partnered with Family Promise of Greater Wichita. The family will contribute a set percentage of its monthly income toward maintenance and utilities and meet other program guidelines. They will live in the home for up to two years, with the option to then enter into a standard tenant-lease with the homeowner.
The family recently graduated from Family Promise’s core rotation program, which provides homeless families with case management services, temporary lodging in local churches and transportation to help them find sustainable work and achieve independence.
“We know there are many roadblocks to finding affordable housing, even when using government-sponsored programs,” said Jacqueline Cook Green, Family Promise of Greater Wichita executive director. “This partnership, which helps families find affordable housing, makes a huge difference in the lives of local families. Our vision is for the program to grow and empower more local families.”
Landlords who are interested in learning more or partnering with family promise should contact Green at (316) 977-7026 or director@familypromisewichita.org.
Family Promise of Greater Wichita unites hearts and hands to provide compassionate hospitality and empower homeless families with children to achieve sustainable independence. The 501(c)3 nonprofit organization began hosting homeless families in Wichita in November 2016 and has celebrated several families who have graduated from the program since then. Learn more at https://familypromisewichita.org/the-program/.
