Family Promise of Spokane Transitions Administrative Facility to Shelter Hub Model

Spokane, WA - 8/13/2024 - Family Promise of Spokane, a non-profit organization dedicated to get and keep housing for unhoused families, is announcing a strategic move of its administrative team from their current facility to a newly redesignated hub in the current emergency shelter campus. This transition, driven by a reduction in funding from both local and federal government sources, underscores the organization's commitment to optimizing resources. By making this move, Family Promise of Spokane aims to maintain a trauma-informed approach while keeping the focus on the families in their programs.

Recent budget cuts across several city-wide programs have significantly impacted non-profits, including Family Promise of Spokane. In response, the organization, like many others, is making difficult decisions to ensure continued support for the members of our community. This administrative move to the shelter campus is a testament to Family Promise’s adaptability and resilience in the face of financial challenges. It also allows them to have a central hub where all their resources are readily available to guests and community members. 

The new Family Promise of Spokane hub will offer a comprehensive range of services, including emergency shelter, case management, educational programs as well as all administrative services. Families will continue to benefit from a holistic approach to their needs, now with most services available under one roof. This centralized administration model will also facilitate better collaboration among staff, volunteers, and community partners, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for families.

Family Promise of Spokane is grateful for the continued support of the community, which remains vital in these challenging times. The organization invites community members, local businesses, and volunteers to join them in this new chapter, ensuring that every family in Spokane has the opportunity to achieve stability and independence.

Peperzak Middle School Serves

Joe Ader, CEO of Family Promise of Spokane, speaks to a group of students at Peperzak Middle School.

Something special happened this week after I had the privilege and joy of giving a motivational speech to 500 students at Peperzak Middle School. Speaking to middle school students is particularly meaningful to me because much of what I do to help the community was ignited in me at that age.

When I was 13, two teachers challenged me to never let a student sit alone. Despite my own insecurities, I took on the challenge and began sitting with anyone who was alone. This experience helped me confront my insecurities and develop empathy for others. Additionally, that same year, I served the homeless in inner-city Los Angeles for the first time and came to faith. These pivotal experiences during middle school shaped the person I am today.

So, when I was asked to speak to a group of middle school kids before their day of service, I was excited. I shared how kids like them can do amazing things to serve the community. The students were fully engaged and their response was fantastic, even cheering at the end of my speech. Teachers and students alike came up to me afterward to express their encouragement.

The last boy to approach me was different. He said, “My mom and I were homeless and we stayed at Family Promise. We moved into our own apartment in February and now I go to school here. Thank you.” He then helped me carry donations the students had brought out to my car. It never fails to bring me to tears when I see our kids rehoused and thriving. Even at Peperzak, the new middle school in the “wealthy” part of town, there are kids who have experienced homelessness whom we have helped.

Thank you for your support that allows us to serve these kids and their families.

Joe Ader

CEO of Family Promise of Spokane

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Release Date: January 16, 2024

1.16.24 Statement.pdf

Download PDF • 192KB

[Spokane, Washington] - It is with deep sadness that we share that last night, a mother staying at Family Promise of Spokane’s Emergency Family Shelter passed away in her sleep. We will not know the cause of death until the medical examiner’s report, but at this time, it is presumed to be due to natural causes. She is survived by her partner and three young children.

During her time with us, this mother exhibited resilience, perseverance, and unwavering love for her children despite the challenges they were facing. Family Promise grieves alongside her family and friends, especially her three children who are now grappling with the absence of their mom.

In the face of this tragedy, Family Promise of Spokane will be providing on-site grief counseling for guests and staff. Additionally, the school counselors for our school-aged children have been notified and will be checking in to support our children that are students at their schools.

To protect the identity of the mother and family, we’ve chosen not to disclose their names at this time. We ask for privacy and respect for our families during this time of mourning and readjustment. As a community, please extend your thoughts and prayers to all those involved.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

CONTACT INFO

Family Promise of Spokane

Joe Ader | (509) 818-7587

jader@familypromiseofspokane.org

ABOUT FAMILY PROMISE OF SPOKANE

Family Promise of Spokane equips families and communities to end the cycle of homelessness. Our organization helps families get housing and keep housing because every child deserves a place to call home. For more information, visit us at www.familypromiseofspokane.org

CONTACT INFO

Family Promise of Spokane

Joe Ader | (509) 818-7587

jader@familypromiseofspokane.org

Emma Hughes | (509) 828-0558

ehughes@familypromiseofspokane.org