Catholic Charities New Hope Apartments: A Transitional Housing Program for Homeless Families 

Catholic Charities New Hope Apartments: A Transitional Housing Program for Homeless Families December, 2016 Update 

Family #28—We Have A New Family!

Our new family is a single African American female with three sons ages 14, 10, 8 and two daughters ages 9 and 16. This mom came to New Hope after fleeing a domestic violence situation. She currently works as a part-time Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and is looking for more clients. Our new mom is now a grandmother to a baby girl.  Her eldest daughter is getting acclimated to being a mother. Our mom is very excited to become a grandmother and is very supportive of her daughter.
 
Recently our mom’s abuser, and the father of her children, passed away due to a drug overdose. It was a difficult time for them over the holidays. They are in the process of taking care of his finances and social security. She reports that she will receive SSI for their children and this additional benefit will really help increase the family’s monthly income. On top of everything, our mom is recovering from a broken arm. She slipped on the ice in the beginning of December. She is currently on medical leave and will return to work in two weeks.  Current Goals:

·   Save at least 3 to 6 months’ worth of rent.
·   Save 90% of income taxes.
·   Make sure that her daughter is linked with services for her and her baby.
·   Take advantage of the Women’s Program at Harper to pursue a career in the medical field.
·   Apply for SSI for death benefits.

 
This family is very grateful to be a part of the Peace and Justice family. Please pray for them.  Happy New Year from New Hope! 

Family #29—We Have Another New Family!

Our other new mom is a single, white female with a three year old son who became homeless due to low income status. She was staying with her child’s father and the relationship became strained while living with his parents. She reported that her child’s father does not work and is not financially stable. They stayed with friends for about two months before she went to a homeless shelter in November of 2016. This mom works for a local pizzeria and is doing special projects for the franchise owner for extra money. She is hopeful that she will soon become a manager due to her experience.
 
She is currently looking for child care for her son in a structured, educational setting. Right now her son’s dad and grandparents provide day care. She is also in the process of applying for various programs offered through the State of Illinois. Current Goals:

·   Save at least 3 to 6 months’ worth of rent.
·   Save 100% of income taxes.
·   Continue to advocate at her current job for a promotion needed to make        more income for current apartment.
·   Continue to keep mental health stabilized.

 
This family sends sincere gratitude for the support received by our Parish. Happy New Year as we assist another family together!