Community Services
Changing lives for the long-term means building a “safety net” for our families – always underpinned by our nurturing, safe, and caring trauma-informed community.
We have found that formerly homeless families are more successful in permanent housing when provided with ongoing case management, goal planning, and assistance accessing resources in their new communities. The programs available through our Community Services help parents and children continue to progress in their recovery, avoid setbacks, and maintain their housing.
After Care Services
Unlike many other transitional housing programs, Drueding Center is unique in providing support services for up to seven years once our families move into permanent housing. We’ve found that the sustained guidance and mentoring provided by After Care services measurably increase the likelihood of lasting success for our families that have experienced homelessness. Drueding Center’s After Care Services include:
Ongoing support from a family advocate to assist with goal planning, budgeting, time management, and life skills
Referrals for job training, continuing education, child care, and legal issues
Information about resources and programs in our families’ new communities
Referrals to other social service agencies when appropriate
Advocacy to assist with landlord disputes, subsidized housing, social security, child support, and mental health
New Neighbors
This permanent supportive housing program provides ongoing support to 18 formerly homeless families in which a family member has a documented disability. In partnership with Housing and Urban Development (HUD), families in New Neighbors receive rent assistance, housing counseling, and ongoing, unlimited support services.
Blueprint to End Homelessness
Our support services also extend to families who have received housing through the Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Blueprint to End Homelessness program. We provide one year of case management, enabling families to sustain their progress and continue healing. Philadelphia’s Office of Homeless Services (OHS) funds this program.
Green Light Food Pantry
This innovative food program allows families to choose exclusively healthy food, including fresh produce, dairy, and proteins. Cooking and nutrition education is also offered. Green Light Pantry is available to our residents and graduates, as well as any food-insecure family in our community. Learn more about Green Light Food Pantry and view a list of accepted foods.