Prevention and Diversion

With more than 40% of Americans a $400 expense away from financial distress, the threat of crisis looms closely for too many families. Preventing families from spiraling into homelessness is an essential part of the Family Promise mission. Each family that comes to Family Promise of Essex County seeking assistance meets with a Case Manager to discuss what is needed to keep the family housed and prevent homelessness.  Often the family needs help with rental arears or past due utility bills.  If a move is necessary, FPE can help with first month’s rent or a security deposit.

FPE Case Managers are trained in trauma informed care and diversion practices.  The Case Managers take the time to listen to each family that comes to us, to ask exploratory questions about why they are seeking assistance and what resources and support networks the family may have.  In some cases, mediation with a family member or light assistance in the form of food, utility assistance or transportation is all that is needed to divert a family from emergency shelter.  The Case Manager will try to help the family find the quickest and most expedient way to safely house the family.