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About Us

History

Families Forward, Inc. is a district based nonprofit organization founded in 1986 by a consortium of ten nonprofit organizations, who wanted to improve the then existing delivery system by providing a coordinated continuum of services to homeless families.

Families Forward eventually evolved into an independent direct service agency. We have achieved success by maintaining an in-house compliment of support services helping over 15,000 families circumvent the shelter system by moving directly in to subsidized housing and/or move out of the shelter system into permanent housing. We have provided a comprehensive array of services to thousands more to prevent homelessness.

Mission

MISSION

The mission of Families Forward, Inc. is to provide homeless and low-income families in the Washington area with quality housing, individualized support, and marketable training so that they can obtain the skills and motivation necessary to achieve self-sufficiency.

Experience

Experience

Families Forward has been providing services to families for over 25 years. We have gained substantial experience operating prevention programs, transitional scattered site housing and emergency shelter facilities.

Through the years Families Forward has provided homeless prevention services to families living in Washington, DC’s public housing community, Sheraton Terrace. Families Forward was able to prevent 100% of the evictions that were pending at the onset of the program.

For many years, Families Forward provided an after-care program for families funded under the Supplemental Assistance Program for Homeless Families. Utilizing a similar intensive case management style as in the transitional housing program, Families Forward staff aided families in identifying permanent housing and maintaining a stable environment in which to live.

In 1996, Families Forward’s reach extended to urban Baltimore, MD where Families Forward’s expertise was enlisted to provide life coping skills and housing counseling to residents of the St. Ambrose public housing community.

Recent Achievement

Recent Achievements

In 2010, Families Forward served over 2,500 people through its various programs.

Some accomplishments include:

46 families received a rental subsidy and case management support services.

309 families received shelter, life skills, case management and out-placement services.

657 children received back to school supplies

110 families received Thanksgiving baskets

79 adults received winter coats, hats, scarves and gloves

197 children and their families participated in our Christmas Angels Program

Staff

Management

Ruby King-Gregory

Executive Director

Christy L. Evans

Director of Operations

Sandra Vanderhurst

Special Projects Manager

Maria McCoy

Supportive Housing Program Manager

Vincent Jenkins

New Approach Program Manager

Board

Families Forward, Inc

Board of Directors

Marvin Clark, Chair

Wachovia Bank, N.A.

Alicia Terry, Secretary

Kutak Rock

Julie Few, Treasurer

The Walker Group LLC

Annual Report

Annual Report

CURRENTLY BEING UPDATED

History

Mission

Experience

Recent Achievement

Staff

Board

Annual Report

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Programs

Our Programs

A team approach is utilized to achieve positive results when addressing educational and employment needs, permanent housing opportunities and family development with the goal of self-sufficiency. Families Forward seeks to identify and establish relationships with other entities that are involved with each family in order to complete the wrap-around services that Families Forward is dedicated to providing. The Family Development Advocate is the key to these working relationships. A Family Development Advocate is assigned to each family that participates in the program. The FDA primarily focuses on personal development, education and skill enhancement.

The Family Development Advocate’s responsibilities include the completion of an assessment of each family’s need, development of an individual service plan, referrals to appropriate services, monitoring and assessment of service utilization, permanency planning, permanent placement and follow-up.

An assessment is made of each participant’s skill levels and barriers to employment. The Family Development Advocate assists the participant in the development of their goals for becoming gainfully employed. The FDA is essential in the monitoring of job retention after employment is obtained. Those participants who do not have a high school diploma or GED receive assistance in identifying tutorial or literacy programs that will help in the development of reading, writing, and mathematical skills. For participants meeting the high school equivalency requirements with little or no work experience, the FDA facilitates the process in accessing training programs in the fields in which participants indicate an interest or display an aptitude.

Since the goal of Families Forward Programs is to prepare families for permanent housing, participants receive constant preparation for permanent tenancy while participating in the programs. For over two decades, Families Forward has operated on the belief that with humane housing, a focus on addressing barriers to success, and marketable job training, families can obtain lifelong self-sufficiency. We believe that helping people help themselves is the best investment a society can make to the creation of strong, independent families.

Housing Program

Stable Families Transitional Housing Program

This program is a HUD funded scattered site supportive housing program designed to help families having faced a crises that left them homeless. Families Forward helps these families get back on their feet by providing housing, counselling, career coaching, life coping skills, and referral services. All families served through this program are literally homeless. Families are moved directly from the shelter system or off the street into private rental housing. Program participants having an income pay up to 30% of their adjusted income toward rent and via HUD funding Families Forward subsidizes the remainder for up to two years. Rental subsidies on behalf of the participant is contingent upon the family remaining active in the supportive services program and adhering to the individualized service contract established with the family upon program entry.

The housing services provided facilitate the movement of homeless families into permanent homes within 24 months by utilizing the turn key concept. This concept alleviates the need for extended shelter stay by allowing for families to reside in a transitional to permanent setting. The turn-key approach also allows participants who can afford unsubsidized rent to stay in their homes after the Rental Assistance Contract has ended. For those families ready and able to work toward homeownership, the FDA’s assist them with the homeownership process and make referrals to first-time homebuyers programs. Those families who cannot afford their apartments at the end of the program receive assistance in finding other affordable housing. All families are encouraged to enter the Supervised Savings Program which allows participants to save toward their stated goals.

With the assistance of Families Forward staff, participants choose apartment units in the private rental market and lease directly from landlords. Families Forward staff oversee the completion of an agreement (Rental Assistance Contract) among the family, the landlord and Families Forward, which establishes the roles and responsibilities of each of the parties. Families Forward staff is engaged in all phases of the process, including inspection of the unit, assisting with the lease-up and helping to resolve any problems with the units. If the family chooses to relocate at the end of transitional stay, Families Forward staff assists the family in identifying other housing.

Families must have a referral and psychosocial from the referring agency or facility. Families served must be current residents of the District of Columbia; be identified as homeless and qualify as a family; demonstrate the ability to become gainfully employed and/or possess the aptitude to achieve higher education or training that will aid in their goal to become employed; be free of illegal drugs or willing to participate in a supervised, documented treatment program; have income that can be verified; be willing to participate in family management, work force development, skills building and/or educational programs; not have an active lease in the head of households name; be determined as able to maintain housing independently without close supervision; submit a current credit report and be able to establish utilities in the head of household’s name. Referrals and psycho-socials must be sent to the attention of Maria McCoy, BSW at 202-639-9763. For additional information contact us _ 202-639-9760.

Seasonal Programs

Seasonal Programs

Back-to-School

This program supports dignity and self-confidence by providing at-risk children with new backpacks and required school supplies enabling them to enjoy that "new crayon smell" along with their peers on the first day of the school year. As long as supplies are available, children may get their school supplies replenished on an as needed basis. Vouchers for school uniforms may also be available.

Thanksgiving/SHARE Program

Families Forward partners with the local Share Program to hold a Thanksgiving-themed grocery distribution the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Families receive traditional Thanksgiving fixings to make a delicious holiday meal. Children participate in fun-filled activities such as face painting and arts & crafts while their parents pick up their baskets. If you are interested in volunteering or donating to our Thanksgiving Program please click the link below.

Thanksgiving Online Donation Form

Last year, with everyone's help we were able to provide 110 families with a special holiday meal.

Holiday Angels adopt a Family Program

The holiday season proves especially difficult for the families we serve. Parents who struggle to provide their family's basic needs are forced to explain to their child why they cannot afford to buy that special toy. Each December, generous donors help to make the holidays a little brighter for local families in need by donating gifts as well as grocery cards. In 2011, donors brought holiday cheer to over 100 families via Families Forward, Inc.

If you are interested in volunteering or donating to our Holiday Angels Adopt a Family Program please click the link below.

Adopt A Family Online Donation Form

Cheryl's Kloset

Cheryl's Kloset

Cheryl’s Kloset

“"Where Caring is Not an Option"

Cheryl’s Kloset was established in November 2005 in memory of Cheryl King, a remarkable guidance counselor in the school system who made an impact on the lives of everyone she encountered. After her passing, the closet was created with her donated clothing as a tribute to her humanitarian spirit and her willingness to help others. We continue to receive corporate and individual donations of new and gently used clothing, coats, shoes, linens, furniture and household items; school supplies, personal hygiene products, and books. Items received are distributed to all Families Forward program participants and impoverished women in the DMV metropolitan area.

For more info call:

Norma Harris

Cheryl’s Kloset

Volunteer Coordinator

Click below to contribute

Cheryls Kloset.docx

Click here for more details

New Approach

New Approach

New Approach is more than just a trendy, eye‐catching program name. It is a commitment to being responsive in an ever‐changing environment, to staying up‐to‐date on best practices, industry standards and population trends and to implementing learning in a way that keeps up with the needs that are facing us all. New Approach is a commitment to remaining flexible, and never, ever settling for mediocrity or the easy way out. New Approach is an honest, up‐front acceptance of and acknowledgement that what worked yesterday does not always work today and what works today may not be what is best tomorrow. New Approach grabs on to the excitement that comes in knowing that you are always moving in the right direction.

The New Approach Career Advancement Program (NACAP) was created to assist families in achieving their goals of self‐sufficiency by ensuring that timely and useful employment assistance is provided in a way that is easy to understand. Like many employment programs, NACAP provides:

• Job Readiness: creating and/or revising your resume and cover letter, identifying creative techniques to get your resume seen, job search skills, and mastering interview skills that would leave a lasting impression.

• Job Development & Placement: ongoing support to assist in finding a job and preparing for a career. In addition, NACAP will use resources to link participants directly to available employment opportunities.

Where NACAP sets itself apart from most employment programs is in what else is included:

• Entrepreneurship Development: for interested individuals who have the drive to take their financial future in their own hands by creating a business. These talented individuals will be assisted in building a business plan and securing business license.

Participants will also be exposed to business presenters and be provided the opportunity to work with business mentors that can provide the guidance to turn dreams into reality.

Professional Success Skills: in today’s competitive market it is more critical than ever that employees, business owners and every person who interacts with the business world come to the table armed with knowledge about expectations for professional conduct in a business environment, how to work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultural experiences, how to communicate in ways that demonstrate and demand respect, how to build a positive professional reputation and how to provide service that leaves people wanting to work with you.

NACAP is the employment program designed to meet the complex needs of the emerging marketplace by meeting the complex needs of today’s workers

Our Programs

Housing Program

Seasonal Programs

Cheryl's Kloset

New Approach

Let Us Help

Transitional Housing

Transitional Housing

Transitional Housing

The Stable Families Transitional Housing Program is designed to help families who have recently faced a crisis that left them homeless. Families Forward helps these families get back on their feet by providing housing, counseling, career coaching, life coping training, and referral services. The transitional homes are spread throughout neighborhoods to protect families' privacy and preserve their dignity, which is especially important for school-age children.

Who Qualifies

Candidates for the Stable Families Transitional Housing Program must have minor-aged children and be willing to work with the program to achieve self-sufficiency. Upon acceptance, Families must meet the Federal Government's HUD definition of homeless.

How to Apply

There is a high demand for entry into the Stable Families Transitional Housing Program and of course we cannot guarantee placement. Families Forward does not have an emergency shelter, but if you are in need call us and we will be pleased to refer you to an appropriate shelter. If you are interested in joining the Stable Families Transitional Housing Program, please call our office at (202) 639-9760.

What Happens Next

We are here to help. Because we cannot guarantee a placement in housing at any particular time we are not able to keep a waiting list for housing. Whenever there is an opening in the program, our counselors review prior information that have been submitted. So it is very important that our contact information on each prospective family is current. If you are in an emergency situation or other crisis, call us and we will do our best to assist you in locating other options.

Transitional to Permanent

Transitional to Permanent

Since the goal of Families Forward’s Programs is to prepare families for permanent housing, they receive constant preparation for permanent tenancy while participating in the Stable Families Program.

The turn-key approach allows participants who can afford unsubsidized rent to stay in their homes after the two-year transitional program. For those families ready and able to work toward homeownership, case management assists them with the homeownership process by making referrals to first-time homebuyers programs.

Those families who cannot afford their apartments at the end of the program receive assistance in finding alternative housing.

After Care Services

After Care Services

Families Forward has a high success rate in assisting graduates in obtaining long term rental subsidies and locating alternative affordable housing.

On an average, 85% of the families that are served through Families Forward are able to sustain their home at the completion of transitional placement.

An average of 10% lack sufficient income to maintain housing independently at the completion of placement and are assisted in identifying alternative housing. “The remaining 5% have proven the need for more intensive services.”

Food

Our Food Pantry is coming soon.

In an emergency, call us at (202) 639-9760 regardless of residence or income. We will do our best to assist or refer you to the closet provider.

Career Coaching

See New Approach.

JobLaunchRegFormJan2012.doc

Workshops

Housekeeping Workshop

Families Forward offers in home instruction to families having the need or desire to develop simple routines that allow for their home to remain attractive and tidy.

When available, our housekeeping advisor provides a housekeeping kit consisting of cleansers and cleaning tools to help improve the maintenance of the home. Units and items that allow for the proper organization of clothing, personal and household items may also be provided.

The housekeeping advisor also assists with the purchase of simple accent and decorative pieces that sparks beauty in the home. When the workshop is completed, housekeeping plans are developed with the family and the housekeeping advisor follow-ups with the family as needed to ensure that the home remains a welcome place for the family.

Community Service

Community Service

Washington DC Assistance and Aid Programs.

Find a listing of agencies, charities, non-profits, government programs, and other organizations that can provide help in the Washington DC area. Receive assistance with everything from paying your rent, to heating and utility bills, free food, counseling for debt and foreclosures, and much more.

Catholic Charities - DCEAF - Southeast Family Center ((202) 574-3442), Capitol Hill Group Ministry (202) 548-4012, Near Northeast Community Improvement Corporation ((202) 399-6900), Marshall Heights ((202) 396-1200), Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ ((202) 723-2542), UPO - Anacostia Community Service Center ((202) 610-0466) all offer the following rent assistance and utility services to residents. The applicant need to be in receipt of an eviction or court or eviction notice, disconnected utility services or cut-off notice, with an emergency situation that is contributing to an inability to pay for their rent or utilities, but with an ability to make future payments for these expenses and the applicant must show a willingness to work with a case manager. (202) 548-4012.

Catholic Charities - ERAP - Southeast Family Center - This non-profit refers families and individuals to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). The program may be able to help applicants and refer people to locations around the city which provide housing assistance. ERAP may help pay late costs, overdue rent, legal fees and court fees, security or damage deposit, and first month's rent for eligible individuals. Call (202) 574-3442.

Center City Community Corporation - This non-profit addresses a residents immediate needs by providing, when available, assistance with food and clothing. Provides referrals for furnishings through Central Union Mission's emergency furniture program. In addition, the agency also assists with mortgage, rent, heating and utility payments for residents of Ward 2 North of the 1100 block of M Street, NW. Call (202) 789-0868

Community Family Life Services - Provides weekly distribution of groceries to low-income families in zip code 20001. Also emergency rent and utility assistance is available if someone has a disconnection or eviction notice. Find other emergency utility programs. Learn more. (202) 347-0511

Father McKenna Center runs an emergency assistance program. The center offers emergency rent, mortgage assistance and utility and electric assistance to residents of Ward 2 that reside south of the 1100 block of M Street, NW. (202) 842-1112

Greater Washington DC Urban League - The center provides rent help, mortgage payment and utility bill assistance to families and individuals who are living in Ward 5 of the District of Columbia through the DC Emergency Assistance Fund. Call (202) 529-8701

Housing Counseling Services also runs the ERAP housing program, which may be able to help pay overdue housing and rent expenses, late costs, security or damage deposit, court fees, and first month's rent and other housing expenses. Call (202) 667-7006

Neighbors' Consejo is a non-profit that provides emergency rent, mortgage payment, food and/or utility and electric assistance to residents of Ward 1 in Washington DC. Call (202) 234-6855

Salvation Army - East of the River Initiative - Ward 8 residents only may be able to access emergency rent, mortgage, and utility bill assistance under the DC Emergency Assistance Fund. Another services that is offered, which is in cooperation with Washington gas, may be able to help Washington DC area residents pay their home heating bills through the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF). Call (202) 561-2000

Regardless of what Ward you live in Salvation Army - Social Service Office (phone (202) 332-5000) may be able to provides eligible low income DC residents with assistance. Receive free food, funds for paying rent, prescription medicines, utility bills, clothing, furniture (for those over 60), and transportation. They also run the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) for heating bills.

Shaw Community Service Center (phone (202) 462-6401) provides qualified individuals with job training, career counseling, clothing, and emergency food and commodities, rental help, and heating and utility assistance. Also learn about such services as free heating oil.

Washington DC rent assistance programs and agencies.

If you are facing an eviction, need funds for paying your security deposit or first months rent, then the District of Columbia Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) may be a resource for you. Even late fees and back rent can be paid for qualified applicants. The program was created to help those renters and families who are faced with some form on unexpected housing emergency.

Many different types of people can get help. Financial grants and assistance can be provided for the unemployed, elderly households (which are considered age 60 or older), low-income DC households with children, the working poor, and people with disabilities. To learn more or to apply for help from the District of Columbia Emergency Rental Assistance Program, email tyra.watkins_dc.gov.

Another non-profit charity organization to contact in DC is the Greater Washington Urban League. They administer the Tenant Base Rental Assistance program in the area. The primary reason this program was created was to assist clients of the Urban League in both finding and maintaining short and long term housing stability, and to reduce the number of people who are evicted and homeless in the area. The TBRA rental assistance program is designed to act as a buffer until an applicant gets into Section 8 housing or finds another longer term situation. Call 202-265-8200.

Only individuals under extreme duress or an emergency may be able to get rental help from By Grace Through Faith Ministries Inc. Can assist with numerous emergency needs, one of which is housing/rent.

Certain wards are served by the Washington DC Salvation Army. The Salvation Army National Capital can offer applicants with rent assistance and eviction prevention programs. Food and money for paying other housing costs, such as utilities, are also available. 202-561-2000

Debt counseling, housing and foreclosure services

Near Northeast Community Improvement Corporation is a center that provides a wide variety of services and financial assistance to Washington DC residents. Get help in the areas of Debt Counseling, Employment, Income Management, Foreclosure Assistance, Housing, Emergency and Nutrition Services based on customer needs that are determined at the intake assessment. Phone (202) 399-6900. Also read about Washington DC foreclosure mediation.

In addition to the services offered by the non-profit organization, there are other ways for Washington DC residents to get foreclosure help, mortgage assistance, and credit and debt counseling. Find other debt assistance programs, and locate information on foreclosure prevention.

In addition to these programs and resources, a large number of housing counselors area available to people in the DC area. You always want to ideally speak to and use the services of a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certified counselor, as many offer free debt reduction and foreclosure counseling services. Find a listing of Washington DC HUD counseling agencies and counselors.

Homeowners in the Washington DC area, including Maryland and northern Virginia, have access to federal government resources too. The mortgage servicer Fannie Mae offers individuals the ability to receive free advice, information on loan modifications and counseling. All of the services are intended to show homeowners can get back on track with paying their home loans.

Washington DC food pantries and non-financial aid

Bread for the City - Provides food and groceries at most once a month to residents of SW, SE and NW Washington, DC who are disabled, elderly, or food can be provided to parents with children between 1 and 17. Call (202) 561-8587.

Central Union Mission - Food Bank may be able to provide emergency nonperishable food to women, men, individuals and families on an emergency one-time basis. In addition, they can provide more long-term food distribution on specific days of the week or month to the following groups: Hispanics, seniors, and single women with children. Call (202) 745-7118

Lutheran Church of the Reformation - Food Pantry, phone number (202) 543-4200, distributes a bag of groceries, which are dry goods, to feed a family of four for up to two days.

Peoples Congregational United Church - The non-profit organization distributes free food and groceries to persons in need only on Fridays but they must have a referral from Answers, Please! or another social service agency in Washington DC. Phone (202) 829-5511

Washington DC food banks.

Several different food banks and pantries exist in the city of Washington DC. The needy, low income, unemployed, and others who need help can get free food or groceries from the locations that are located throughout the city. The Washington DC food pantries can provide assistance and possibility even forms of non-financial aid or support to those who need help. Most are non-profit organizations and/or charities, and some of them may also serve as churches as well. Find information and details on locations to call for access to free food in the region.

Capital Area Food Bank

Washington, DC

A number of food assistance programs, free food, groceries, and other aid is provided. Among them include Fresh Produce, Mobile Pantry, EFAP, CACFP, Food Box Distribution, Nutrition Education, Food Stamps, and Senior Brown Bag Programs.

Call 202.526.5344

Community Harvest

2437 15th Street NW

Washington DC, 20009

Phone number - 202-667-8875

Slow Food

2713 11th Street, NW #1

Washington DC, 20001

From the Ground Up

645 Taylor St NE

Washington DC, 20017

202-526-5344

Center for Food Safety

660 Pennsylvania Ave. SE

Washington DC, 20003

Dial - 202-547-9359

Capital Area Food Bank

645 Taylor Street NE

Washington DC, 20017

202-526-5344

Focuses on the greater Washington DC area. A variety of food assistance programs are administered. They partner with local churches, non-profits, food banks, and pantries to help provide food to the most needy as possible.

SOME (So Others Might Eat)

71 O Street

Washington DC 20001

Meals, food, produce, groceries, and other food stuffs and commodities are distributed from this location.

National Family Farm Coalition

110 Maryland Ave NE #307

Washington DC, 20002

(202)543-5675

DPHW (Dinner Program for Homeless Women)

309 E Street

Washington DC, 20001

Phone number - 202-737-9311

The homeless can turn to this center for food and meals. They may even be able to refer homeless men or women to local shelters.

Washington City Church of the Brethren Nutrition Program

337 North Carolina Avenue SE

Washington DC, 20003

202-546-8706

They provide food and/or a hot meal to anyone in need. Call them for more information on services provided.

First Helping

1328 - 16th Street

Washington DC, 20036

202.387.2015

Another non-profit organization that is focused on providing food and other forms of assistance to the low income. Families and individuals can get help, and access information and other forms of support.

Garden Resources of Washington

1419 V Street NW

Washington DC, 20009

202-234-0591

Food & Water Watch

1616 P Street NW

Washington DC 20036

(202) 683-2500

Brainfood

1525 Newton Street

Washington DC, 20010

202-667-5515

St. Stephen & the Incarnation Episcopal Church

1525 Newton Street NW

Washington DC, 20010

202-232-0900

A food pantry and thrift store is offered to the needy and low income from this Church. Call or stop by for aid and support.

FRESHFARM Markets of Washington DC

PO Box 15691

Washington DC, 20003

Phone - 202.362.8889

The United Church

1920 G Street

Washington DC, 20006

Telphone - 202-331-1495

Call the church. Your local church or religious organization can often times provide food, groceries, meals, and other forms of support. Some may even have a limited amount of money for rent and/or utilities.

Share Our Strength

1730 M Street NW Suite 700

Washington DC, 20036

202-393-2925

Call this federal supported, non-profit organization for free food. They can also offer information on government programs, other local Washington DC agencies, and government programs such as TANF food stamps.

DC Central Kitchen Inc.

425 2nd St. NW

Washington DC, 20001

202 234 0707

Food for All DC

1810 16th St NW

Washington DC, 20009

301-984-0217

Regardless of your income, race, or background this charity type organization can provide limited amounts of free food or other aid.

Citizens for Health

5 Thomas Circle NW

Washington DC

Phone - 202-483-4344

Community Clinics

Volunteer

Food Drive

Food Drives

Educational Outlook-New

Educational Outlook-New

Administrative

Donations

Donations

Back to School Program

Back To School Program

Thanksgiving Basket Program

Thanksgiving Basket Program

Adopt A Family Program

Adopt A Family Program

Special Events

Special Events

FAQ

Community Action

Youth Activities

Youth Activities

Student Advocacy

Community Partnerships

Community Partnerships

Donations

Donations

Donations

Donors/Sponsors

Donors/Sponsors

Food

Food

Furniture

Furniture

FAQ's

FAQ's

Events

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving

Adopt a Family

Adopt a Family

Annual Gala

Annual Gala

Press

Call To Action

The Reality

The Reality

Streets of DC

Testimonials

Testimonials

Appeal

APPEAL

Contact

CONTACT