Bringing Families Together

Homelessness is a real problem here in Wake County, and its harmful effects impact every age group. According to an ABC news report in February 2022, the Raleigh‐Cary area has the highest rent in North Carolina, with rent increasing over 20% when compared to the previous year. This increase has affected families with economic hardships the most.

The effects of homelessness on children are not just situational. Not only are children in an unstable environment and at an increased risk of exposure to inappropriate societal influences but their educational development is impacted. Homeless children are more likely to score below grade level on school performance exams, with a higher impact on math and reading.

Children's health and emotional and behavioral development are also influenced negatively. Homeless youth are at a higher risk of infectious disease, developing asthma, and suffering from stunted growth from poor nutrition.

There is hope. Families Together is an organization with a vision of ending homelessness in the community. They work to move families from homelessness to a stable home environment through mentoring, housing support, and connecting people to community resources.

Families Together successfully helps our homeless by following a core model of three steps. The first is creating a foundation that occurs over the first thirty days. During this time, families are matched with a family navigator, complete a needs assessment, are provided emergency shelter for priority families, and more.

The next step in the model is moving to permanent housing within 60 days, which involves locating neighborhoods near work and school, connecting families to landlords and properties, verifying a safe environment, assisting with deposits, and supporting the families at lease signing.

The final step is making a home. This includes rental assistance, one‐on‐one coaching, education, credit counseling, and job readiness with employment support.

There are many ways to help, but here are a few options. Donations are accepted as one‐time and monthly submissions. Leaving a legacy can have tax benefits. Become a corporate partner and gain valuable exposure for your company. Visit familiestogethernc.org/give-money to learn of other ways to help.

You can learn more about Families Together by visiting familiestogethernc.org.