Homeless to Happiness

“Bill and Kari”, a young couple who had a preschooler plus a baby on the way, moved back to Nebraska last fall after things didn’t work out in California. Two moves and they were broke, so they put their belongings into storage and moved into the homeless shelter. With their optimism it was clear that they would get back on their feet quickly.
When Bill found part-time work as an apprentice they were eligible to enroll into the Homeless Prevention & Rapid-Rehousing Program. HPRP assisted with their moving costs to a rental. The amount of rent was lowered as Bill’s income increased.

They have now exited from the HPRP program because Bill has obtained his Journeyman’s license and is now completely providing for his family. Susie is nearly finished with an on-line course and will be ready to return to the workforce after their baby is born. Without this assistance they would have needed to stay longer at the homeless shelter to save enough to move out. Since they’ve moved out other families have been assisted through the same process.

By helping with first month’s rent and security deposits, HPRP has increased the capacity of the homeless shelter to help more people who are striving to change their lives.

"Helping People, Changing Lives" 

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP)

But for this assistance they would be homeless … and they can sustain their housing once they exit the program.  HPRP in southwest Nebraska is not only assisting “prevention” families currently enrolled in the program, but is now targeting those who are literally homeless. Already we’re seeing successes.

“Joe”, is a Veteran with a history of homelessness that is termed “chronic”, however this past year something clicked for him. After he found the support he needed at the homeless shelter to get his life back on track Joe decided that he has something to contribute and wants to help others. He’s worked hard to overcome alcohol addiction. He’s now studying to become a counselor. With assistance from HPRP Joe moved out of the homeless shelter into a small apartment which made room for someone else.
By helping with first month’s rent and security deposits, HPRP has increased the capacity of the homeless shelter to help more people who are striving to change their lives.

by Linda Martin

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) Coordinator