West Chester, Pa (February 10, 2025) – A nonprofit organization working to alleviate homelessness was awarded state funding to help families achieve sustainable housing and stability thanks to the work of state Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane.
Family Promise of Southern Chester County will use the funds to support its 6 Promise Houses, which offer families that are experiencing homelessness housing in a safe, apartment-like setting for up to 120 days. In between stays by guest families, the Promise Houses routinely need to be outfitted with new supplies like bedding, towels, cleaning supplies, kitchen supplies, and occasionally new appliances.
“As families in our region continue to face a shortage of affordable housing, Family Promise of Southern Chester County helps prevent homelessness by providing meals, shelter, resources, and mentorship to help them get back on their feet,” Comitta said. “I’m proud to support this organization because every child deserves to know they can come home to a warm bed and a safe, clean, and healthy place to live.”
“Every family deserves a place to call home,” said Senator Kane. “When I see parents and children struggling with housing insecurity in our communities, it breaks my heart. This funding isn’t just about buildings and supplies – it’s about giving our neighbors hope, dignity, and a foundation to rebuild their lives. When we strengthen families, we strengthen our entire community, and I’m committed to ensuring that every family in Southern Chester County has the support they need to thrive.”
“We are deeply grateful to State Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane for their incredible support and commitment to our mission. This $50,000 grant will provide essential supplies for our Promise Houses, ensuring that families with children experiencing homelessness have the resources they need to achieve stability and a brighter future. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of the most vulnerable in Southern Chester County,” said Carol M. Lowe, MSW, LSW, Executive Director of Family Promise of Southern Chester County.
Now in its 10th year, Family Promise of Southern Chester County offers shelter and case management services while helping families experiencing homelessness transition to stable housing and self-sufficiency.
Last year, the group provided more than $5,000 in rental assistance and 1,279 nights of shelter to families experiencing homelessness while serving 60 families in its core programs.
According to recent data, more than a quarter of households in Chester County are currently dedicating more than 30 percent of their income solely to housing costs, which is considered a critical point where housing becomes financially unsustainable for most families.
Comitta and Kane both support important investments in housing and affordability in Governor Shapiro’s state budget plan, including $1 billion in property tax relief, $10 million for first-time homebuyers, $50 million to repair our housing stock, raising the minimum wage to $15/hour, and a $10 million increase for the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement.
Family Promise of Southern Chester County is one of over 200 nationwide Family Promise local affiliates.
For more information on Family Promise of Southern Chester County and how you can help children with families that are facing homelessness, visit familypromisescc.org.
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