Employing best practices serves our families well

The NEST (Neighbors Experiencing Success Together)

At FMF, our number one goal is to help families put homelessness behind them, which is why we employ the Housing First model. This approach emphasizes providing permanent housing as quickly as possible to those experiencing homelessness. This achieves two things: It ends a family’s homelessness and provides them with a better platform than emergency shelter to address other issues that will improve their quality of life. Housing First is also more cost-effective than other options. We make every effort to help families secure safe, affordable housing within 90 days of entering our shelter.  

To promote long-term stability, we offer intensive case management. Staff help parents develop housing plans, secure employment and childcare, and address other needs, such as mental health. Our programming focuses on helping guests develop the life skills necessary for self-sufficiency and is run by a collaborative group of trained staff, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and partner agencies. Volunteers play a crucial role at FMF by providing warm hospitality, serving meals, and hosting evening programming for both adults and children. Collectively, we strive to offer families a non-judgmental, loving space where they always know they’re valued.  

The NEST accommodates 20 families at a time in our secure residential setting. This year, FMF projects to serve 60 families through The NEST.

Serving Tomorrow’s Adults

While services for parents are essential, it’s also critical to serve our youngest guests. Infants to five-year-olds are typically the largest population in our temporary housing program (the NEST).

We are confident our “multi-generation approach” will speed progress in breaking the cycle of poverty, and we envision other homeless service providers across the country adopting this best-practice model. 

Click here to read more about our services for children.