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Family Transitional Housing

Started in 1983, Family Transitional Housing offers six to 24 months of housing and support services for homeless families with children. The program, often called "Family House", currently operates ten single-family residences in DeKalb County, Georgia. Both single-parent and two-parent families are eligible. While participating in the program, families receive housing, utilities, case management, resources and referrals, financial management education, a savings plan, a support group, computer training opportunities, and other services as needed. Family House residents put 25% of their adjusted income into an account with DCM on a monthly basis. At the end of their participation in the program, all but 5% of these contributions are returned to the family as savings, allowing them to pay security and utility deposits, rent, and other living expenses.

In order to apply for Family Transitional Housing, families must demonstrate a willingness to be a part of a comprehensive program and to make changes that will move them toward self-sufficiency. Additionally, they must meet the following minimum criteria:

• All adults must be employed or engaged in employment-related activities.
• The family must be homeless as defined by HUD guidelines.
• The family must include at least one child under the age of 16.
• The family must contribute a minimum of 25% of their adjusted income each month to an account with DCM; 20% is returned at the end of their participation in the program.

Once accepted into the program, adults are required to participate in a three-part financial management education class. The Destiny Workshops, a structured support group for women, are another integral and mandatory component of Family Transitional Housing. Adults also have the opportunity to attend computer training sessions at DCM's Expanding Horizons Technology Center, if desired.

Decatur Cooperative Ministry is an ecumenical agency of over 35 congregations from 12 denominations.  People and congregations of all faiths are welcomed as partners.  DCM works in conjunction with schools and educational institutions, government agencies, businesses, civic organizations, and community groups.  Services, employment opportunities, and volunteer opportunities are open to all qualified applicants, and DCM does not practice or tolerate any form of discrimination based on religion, race, physical ability, gender, or age.