OVERVIEW

The singular aim of the program is to break the cycle of homelessness by helping families gain the resources necessary to move permanently to independent living. 

In 1993, Providence House launched a program to address the root causes of homelessness. The program was called the “Providence House program to break the cycle of homelessness.” This program includes comprehensive support services for improving the family structure and moving the family into independent living. We like to think of our program as a hand up, rather than a hand out.

We help local homeless families overcome their crises and return to self-sufficiency. Providence House provides short-term transitional housing in combination with an individualized support program including parenting, money management, and life skills development.

Families wishing to receive our help must:

• be homeless
• have children who are minors
• be willing and capable to work full time
• be willing to work a program to become drug and alcohol free if there is evidence of an addiction
  
• be legally married (if a two-parent family)
• be willing to participate in our program

For families who both qualify and participate in our program, Providence House is a bridge back to self-sufficiency. The program provides a fully-furnished home and a tailored support program designed to help the family rebuild its self-sufficiency. Families work with a licensed social worker and a family advocate to learn life skills that help reverse the cycle of homelessness.

Each year, the Providence House Program returns 20-25 formerly homeless families to the Shreveport/Bossier community who are empowered to avoid welfare and dependency on public agencies. However, these families do more than maintain independence. They send their children to college, become homeowners, mentor other struggling families, and give back to the community that gave to them!