Old and New Friends Gathered for Change |
Our Chefs for Change Harvest Dinner on Oct. 5th was a beautiful and—at times—moving event at the newly-opened Lincoln on Geer. Thanks to our wonderful sponsors for their support and to all who attended. The evening featured delicious fare prepared by Tom Meyer and Southern Harvest and impassioned remarks by Shiona Caldwell, FMF's Enrichment Programs Manager, and FMF Executive Director Tammy Laurence.
Shiona described the many ways we support children and their development and highlighted our community partners in the Durham Public Schools system and McKinney-Vento program. Tammy addressed the root causes of family homelessness, including lack of affordable housing, income inequality, and access to supportive services. Her comments provided guests with a roadmap for how we got here and a better sense of what it will take to solve this "wicked" problem.
You can view photos from the Harvest Dinner on the Scoville Photography website. |
The Realities of Family Homelessness |
On Tuesday, FMF Director of Programs & Residential Services Tasha Melvin told WRAL News how the lack of affordable housing in Durham is impacting the families we serve. She noted that the current housing market is increasing stress for families and providers. "The biggest change has been our ability to move them into permanent housing quickly," Tasha said. "We are seeing families for much longer." She underscored how homelessness particularly affects children under the age of five.
"They're not engaging with children their ages,” she said. “They're not learning how to write or hold pencils. There’s significant loss when they come to our shelter, and we have to quickly implement something to get them back on track with their peers."
If you attended our Harvest Dinner on Oct. 5th, you heard about the ways we help children overcome obstacles so they can break the cycle of poverty. You also learned about the systemic, interrelated causes of family homelessness. Please join us at our Annual Gala on Dec. 12th to learn what we can do in 2024—as individuals and as a community—to start chipping away at family homelessness. It’s a daunting problem, but together we can make a lasting difference. Reserve your seat at the table today.
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Late last year, the Fox Family Foundation awarded FMF a three-year general operating grant to help us launch a rapid rehousing initiative. This commitment, supplementing support from the City of Durham, has enabled us to create a two-track system for families so we can help those with fewer obstacles obtain permanent housing more quickly. You can read more about this partnership and innovative approach on the foundation’s website.
Families Moving Forward is incredibly grateful for the generous support of the Fox Family Foundation, which has invested in our efforts since 2003! |
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The McKinney-Vento office ensures immediate enrollment and removal of barriers to education for students in transition or displaced from their home. Their office supports these students and their families, including families in FMF's shelter.
One of the services they provide is a clothing closet for students experiencing homelessness. They accept new and gently used clothing, shoes, and hygiene items. They are currently in need of jackets and shoes for teens, and students are always asking for hoodies/pullovers, leggings, and in general trendy age appropriate clothing. If you would like to donate, please email Deja Flythe at deja_flythe@dpsnc.net or call (919) 560-2000 ext. 85310. |
FMF is partnering with Duke Memorial United Methodist Church to provide gifts for children in our aftercare program. They are hosting their annual Christmas Market on Dec. 2nd to give out toys to families in need in our community. We are looking for volunteers to transport our families in aftercare to and from the event. If you'd like to volunteer, email Anna Krecklow at anna@fmfnc.org |
The Manager for People and Culture (HR Manager) will be responsible for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging, Talent Management, Talent Development and Performance Management, Talent Recruitment and Onboarding, Compensation Strategy, and HR Policy and Compliance. For more information and how to apply, visit fmfnc.org/employment
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Donate Today (or Tomorrow) |
We are in need of new pillows, sheet sets (twin & full) and comforters for new families moving into our shelter.
Please email Anna Krecklow at anna@fmfnc.org to donate. |
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