What We Do
Our Mission
The mission of Family Promise of Greater Wichita is to empower families with children to overcome homelessness and housing insecurity through a holistic approach, community involvement, and sustainable solutions.
Our Services & Programs
There are three core programs under our overall Sustainable Independence Program:
EMERGENCY SERVICES: For families experiencing housing insecurity.
Families at risk of either losing their home or having to enter a shelter, who are in a position to attain stability with a little bit of assistance and support, are met with tangible assistance, case management, and opportunities for future community with Family Promise of Greater Wichita.
SHELTER SERVICES: For families currently experiencing homelessness.
Each family that seeks shelter with FPGW enters the flagship Rotation Program. Families with longer term barriers might eventually move into Bridge to Housing- a static shelter model – to make room for additional families in Rotation and be empowered to clear final hurdles to housing.
STABILIZATION SERVICES: For families who have completed case management through Emergency or Shelter Service programs.
Ongoing support and community are offered to every family and their children. Shelter Graduates facing extra barriers to affordable housing might utilize the Almost Home transitional housing program as an opportunity for future sustainability.
Additional Services
PET PROMISE
Many families face the difficult choice of remaining on the street rather than abandoning their family pet(s) to enter a shelter. These families and their children are already struggling with the fear and stress of rebuilding after losing their homes, and Family Promise of Greater Wichita believes that they shouldn’t have to also choose between a beloved family member and safety of their family.
Through the Pet Promise program, family pets are fostered by volunteers while families participate in the FPGW Rotation Program and then reunited as a family.
BRIGHT FUTURES
As an organization that focuses on families with children, Family Promise of Greater Wichita is proud to offer the Bright Futures program to guest and graduate families. This program focuses on engaging young guests of Family Promise and supports developmental milestones, life skills, and social-emotional skill-building in order to better partner with families to set them up for long term stability and success.
ALMOST HOME
Affordable housing is hard to find for families who are rebuilding after loss, eviction, and hardship. Providing affordable options that can set families up for long term success is an important part of the FPGW Almost Home program. These living spaces are offered to program graduates and are made possible through community partnerships with landlords and others who are willing to give second chances to people who may have difficulties in their rental or credit history.
KEYS TO SUCCESS
In the Greater Wichita community, sustainable solutions are harder when you are relying on public transportation. In order to better serve families in their quest for long term stability, Family Promise of Greater Wichita gives qualified graduates access to available vehicles through the Keys to Success program.
Quality vehicles, donated by community partners, open doors for families that they did not have before. Having reliable transportation is life changing for families as they navigate daycare, school, work, and the day-to-day needs of a family with children.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How are families referred to the program and what is that process?
A network of community partners refers families, or families may self-refer. FPGW strives to help families as much as possible. Families seeking services should start the process by reaching out to FPGW (316-977-7026) and completing an initial phone interview. During that call, basic information will be collected and passed along to a Case Manager, who will make a determination about which program might best serve the family’s needs. If we are not able to help, we will refer the family to an agency that can.
What are some advantages of the Family Promise program over a more traditional shelter?
A Family Promise Affiliate (there are 200+ nationwide) has these advantages in communities:
- It is cost-effective because it utilizes existing community resources.
- This program doesn’t institutionalize shelter as a solution to homelessness.
- About 76 percent of guest families find permanent housing, often with volunteers’ help.
- Family Promise can be a vital outreach ministry within the walls of the members’ own church or faith building.
Are you based in Wichita?
Yes! We are an independent nonprofit based in Wichita. We are also proud to be part of the nationwide Family Promise network of caring communities, providing hospitality and advocating for the needs of local families in over 200 affiliate locations since 1986.
Are you a 501(c)3?
We are a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit approved by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. Governing documents and financial statements are available upon request.