Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen is keeping families together

Catholic Charities Program Clinical Supervisor Odali Melendez accompanied by Housing Specialist Lisa Novalany recently presented keys to the first family to benefit from the newly launched Keeping Families Together Program (KFT) at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen.  KFT is a model of permanent supportive housing utilizing housing choice vouchers designed specifically for child welfare-involved families struggling with homelessness and other challenges. The vouchers are essential to helping these families find an affordable and safe place to live.  KFT is a coordinated effort between DCF and DCA to expand housing options for those most vulnerable, and provides families access to supportive services, including case planning and evidence-based and trauma-informed coordinated services to support each family’s unique needs. 

The family was assisted financially with a security deposit as well as selecting and purchasing furniture and household items.  According to Melendez, the team feels satisfied, excited and happy to have assisted this family with obtaining their first home and to move forward from their previous homeless status. The program will continue to assist the family with case management needs, employment assistance, parenting education and clinical services as needed.
 
Catholic Charities operates the KFT program in Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, and Warren Counties. Last year, more than 51,000 people from all walks of life reached out to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen for help. Catholic Charities responded through more than 100 programs to provide a path to self sufficiency and hope for a brighter future.  Those wishing to support the work of Catholic Charities can make a donation online at www.ccdom.org/donate.