Author: dkunzman

Enriching the COMMUNITY
A Monthly Publication for friends of
Family Enrichment network

Family Enrichment Network
24 Cherry Street
Johnson City, NY 13790
www.familyenrichment.org
(607) 723-8313

March 2020

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Housing and Community Services
Housing and Community Services is a diverse department and encompasses several different programs. In April 2013 Family Enrichment began its commitment to address the need for safe and affordable housing. FEN purchased it’s first property in Johnson City. The 2-family property consists of a first floor 2 bedroom apartment and a second floor 1 bedroom apartment. The developmentally delayed population was identified as a population in need of safe affordable housing in the community. In September 2015, 51 Roberts St. Johnson City, NY was acquired for this purpose. The house allows multiple (2-3) individuals to reside in a single family home. This model allows individuals with developmental disabilities the opportunity to live independently in the community while having roommates to share and support that experience. In our continued effort to provide safe and affordable housing options for families a single family home at 241 St. Charles St, Johnson City was purchased. The 3 bedroom one bath home is Section 8 approved. In December 2018, we were awarded our first HHAP and ESSHI grants. Named “Housing Connections” The program will provide 19 supportive housing units. The program will prioritize homeless youth ages 18-25 years old; formerly incarcerated (non-violent offenders); survivors of domestic violence; individuals with a substance abuse disorder; Intellectual/developmental disability; chronically homeless; and disabled military veterans who have an unmet housing need. We anticipate breaking ground in early April 2020 and hope to be up and operational by early fall.
The Caring Homes Program, which began in 2013, is a housing assistance program funded with Emergency Solutions Grant funds through the City of Binghamton. The goal of this program is to prevent homelessness through financial assistance and supportive services. For those who meet eligibility requirements, financial assistance can be obtained for security deposits or rent arrears. In addition, case management services are provided to create a plan for housing stability. We begin our 8th year of managing the program.
In November 2016, we expanded upon services offered to those with developmental disabilities/intellectual disabilities. The HCBS waiver program supports individuals in the community by providing a variety of services and supports. We are currently providing Community Habilitation and Prevocational Services. Community Habilitation assists individuals in acquiring, retaining, and improving independence, socialization, and adaptive skills necessary to reside successfully in home and community-based settings. Prevocational Services prepare individuals for paid employment or unpaid meaningful community experiences. 2020 is a year of growth for our HCBS waiver program. We have applied, through OPWDD, to provide SEMP (Supported Employment Services) and ETP (Employment Training program). Both programs supports individuals need to obtain and maintain paid competitive jobs in the community.
2020 is an exciting year of growth and development for the department. Stay tuned!
To learn more about xxxxx, visit our website at
www.familyenrichment.org or contact xxxxx
The mission of Family Enrichment Network is to provide supportive services for the optimal development of children and families. We believe in coordinating children and family services using a comprehensive and collaborative approach to improve their quality of life while ensuring the greatest value for our investment in child, adult, and parent development.