Family Emergency Shelter

Background

TMSC has, for the past 14 years, managed the Family Emergency Shelter for Prince George's County, Maryland. FES provides 24/7 housing and supportive social services for 18 homeless families for periods of time not to exceed three months. TMSC provides a fully furnished and equipped apartment community environment. FES always operates at full capacity. It has served more than 1000 families over the years.

The Challenge

The families served at the shelter arrive there because they are homeless. Frequently, homelessness is a result of other underlying problems. These may include: substance abuse, joblessness, lack of education and/or training. Enabling the family members to positively address their needs is the first step toward restoring family functionality.

The Solution

TMSC's highly skilled and certified case managers and counselors are committed to assisting clients attain independence and self-sufficiency. Our staff provides structured rehabilitative services that address the complex multiple needs of our clients. We link clients to other necessary services offered by other agencies.

Success Story

FES is considered to be a model shelter by its funding agency and its former clients. The structured support and counseling offered by the staff has proven effective. Family members break dependency on drugs. Families secure housing and employment. Eighty percent of the families remain independent and self-sufficient for the long term. Many keep in touch regularly and report on their and their children's progress. Staff is always delighted to hear from individuals such as a former substance abuser who went on to recieve a national certification in addictions counseling and is now the director of a social services agency. One of her children went on to recieve her bachelor's degree and became a school teacher.