The program
Baldwin Family Village (BFV) is a hand-up (versus a hand-out) program: if a woman is willing to invest in herself, then BFV will invest alongside her, engaging each resident with a holistic plan for restored hope and personal transformation.
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Must be at least 24 years old,
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Must be homeless or fleeing domestic violence (PFA must be obtained upon entry),
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Must be able to work and/or attend school (volunteer hours do not count),
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Must be drug and alcohol-free,
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Must be willing to live in a drug/alcohol-free environment (and take random drug tests), and
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Must be willing to participate in a case management plan.
BFV will be operated by Dumas Wesley Community Center (DWCC).
upon intake We will
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Meet the immediate need for stable housing so that residents may focus on becoming self-sufficient;
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Help residents obtain job skills and educational skills so they can financially support themselves;
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Help overcome other critical obstacles such as lack of affordable childcare so they may work outside the home;
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Help individuals and mothers with children recover from and avoid the trauma which homelessness and economic instability caused to their health, self-esteem, and emotional development; and
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Help secure and retain permanent housing upon completion of the BFV program.
why Dumas Wesley community center?
DWCC’s long history of enhancing its community and unparalleled success rate with respect to transitional housing makes them uniquely qualified to address the needs of the homeless in Baldwin County.
Founded in 1903, DWCC is recognized nationally for its expertise in working with the poor and addressing homelessness. Since 1999, DWCC has operated an effective and transformative transitional housing program in Mobile called the Sybil H. Smith Family Village. Since its inception, the program has served 2,390 individuals with an average Shelter Utilization Rate of 91% (beds in use) and has boasted an 88% success rate among residents moving into permanent housing, which is 17% higher than the national average, according to HUD statistics (success is measured by the women’s ability to continue living independently six months following graduation from the program).
DWCC intends to replicate this proven blueprint of care and establish it as a lasting resource for Baldwin County through BFV.
What will it cost?
Start-up costs are currently estimated to be $70,650. The annual operating budget is $540,150. For a list of start-up costs and budget items, click the button below.