Family Promise of Morris County guest Paul began experiencing homelessness in 2018.
For over five years, he went without a bed to sleep in, a kitchen to eat in, or somewhere to kick off his shoes at the end of the day.
At 75 years old, this is not what Paul had envisioned for his retirement.
In 2019, Paul was connected with Our Promise Drop-In Resource Center, our daytime resource center located in the First Baptist Church in downtown Morristown. Our Promise is a beloved community resource, where those experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, or who are low-income can access resources, a team of Licensed Social Workers (LSW), refreshments, a mailing address, and more.
Family Promise staff worked with Paul and ultimately helped him apply for an Emergency Housing Voucher.
At the time, Paul was hesitant, afraid even that he would never be able to obtain stable housing. The voucher application process can be time consuming and often confusing for applicants, particularly as it relates to gathering necessary documentation.
Our team guided him along the way, providing support at every step. Soon after, Paul’s application was accepted—he was over the moon!
Then came the next process: securing a public housing unit with his Emergency Housing Voucher.
In a community where safe, accessible, and affordable housing is difficult to find, Paul was worried that he would not find a home. But our dedicated Landlord Support Team assured him that he would have support every step of the way.
Our Landlord Support Program provides housing search assistance and support through a network of local landlords and property managers in the community. This bridges the often difficult gap of finding safe, accessible, and affordable housing that will accept a housing voucher.
I can't even express my THANKS...only by sending and sharing my LOVE to all! - Family Promise Guest Paul
Soon after, Paul was able to secure a public housing unit!
Our Making Moves Matter More team, alongside Family Promise staff, helped Paul locate a brand new bed, bedding, furniture, and essential household items for his very own space.
On the day of his move, a local Girl Scout Troop even provided Paul with his first dinner in his new home—baked ziti—which he absolutely loved!
Throughout his journey, Paul continuously expressed his gratitude for how wonderful everyone was to him. The effort to safely house Paul, placing him on a path toward independence and stability, was a true team—and community-wide—effort.
With the help of our supportive and generous community, we continue to fulfill our mission to end the crisis of homelessness in Morris County one individual at a time.
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