Family Strengthening Program

“At times we all need a helping hand to find the right path to personal success and fulfillment.” 

The Family Strengthening Program is more than a safe place to live. It is a supportive environment where women and children are challenged to learn and grow through the services provided. It is affordable for women who have a limited income. The monthly program fee includes utilities, telephone, and all services, keeping expenses manageable for struggling families. The Family Strengthening Program is not

a permanent solution for housing. It is a “stop along the way.” All residents must commit to making changes that will lead to independence and self-sufficiency. All are expected to actively seek employment and/or education. The Family Strengthening Program provides family-centered communal living in five large cottages that house six families each. Every family enjoys a private bedroom and shares a bathroom with one other family.

The cottages have a large kitchen and several furnished shared living areas.

To support women in household management and educational pursuits, each cottage has two computers with Internet access. Residents are responsible for purchasing and preparing their own meals, as well as doing laundry and keeping their rooms clean. Everyone takes part in daily housekeeping tasks to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

Families also have access to campus recreational facilities, including a heated indoor swimming pool, playgrounds, picnic areas, and playing fields for basketball, baseball, and soccer.

SERVICES

Services are the cornerstone of success for Family Strengthening Program participants. Each resident is required to participate in weekly case management, parenting coaching, individual counseling sessions, and educational classes.

Case management gives women guidance and support in developing long and short-term goals, addressing obstacles, and identifying steps to success.

Parenting coaching helps mothers develop a strong and healthy relationship with their child.

Counseling gives women access to licensed therapists to examine past choices and begin emotional healing.

Educational classes provide learning opportunities to enhance skills for parenting and life management. Topics include child development, parenting styles, discipline and limit setting, communication and conflict resolution, self-esteem, health and safety, nutrition, money skills, stress and anger management, and career planning.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

St. Vincent's Family Strengthening Program serves single, low-income mothers with one or two children maximum. Mothers over age 18 and children from birth to age three are eligible. Please call St. Vincent’s at 805 - 683 - 6381 for information. Contact us.

HELP SUPPORT A FAMILY IN ST. VINCENT’S FAMILY STRENGTHENING PROGRAM 

St. Vincent’s is dedicated to providing single mothers and their children with the full range of services and support they need to lead productive and fulfilling lives on their own. The actual program costs are about $425 per week ($22,000 per year). Support a mother and her children in St. Vincent’s Family Strengthening Program, and your donation will help ensure a brighter future for them. Make a gift. Change a life.