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Homeless
Prevention Program Update (Click here for Eligibility Guidelines) A SUMMARY OF OUR HOMELESS PREVENTION PROGRAM AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS THROUGH October15, 2009
MetroWest Outreach Connection, Incorporated (MWOC) is an all-volunteer 501c3 non-profit organization that is dedicated to preventing homelessness. The Homeless Prevention Program works to stabilize individuals and families in their homes or to reduce the length of time they stay in shelters. People who may be eligible for the program include clients that are imminent danger of eviction or those who are homeless and seek permanent housing. The program assists our low and very low-income clients. MWOC only provides funds to households that are able to sustain their rent or mortgage payments once they receive financial assistance. We collaborate with other organizations such as South Middlesex Opportunity Council, Metro West Legal Services, Advocates, City of Marlborough Department of Human Resources and Catholic Charities. They use our Eligibility Guidelines and Application Form to screen and recommend clients to MWOC. MetroWest Outreach Connection’s funding comes from grants, donations and fundraising activities. During 2008, we expended approximately $131,100 to provide financial assistance to 129 clients. We must raise approximately $135,000 in 2009 to be able to sustain the Homeless Prevention Program at the current level of need. During the past five years, we have not turned down one client in the Metro West region who meets our eligibility requirements. Relevant Information and Accomplishments
1. Since the Homeless Prevention Program commenced on August 2, 2004, MetroWest Outreach Connection has raised approximately $475,000. We have received funds from grants, donations and fundraising. Our 2009 Walk to Prevent Homelessness raised more than $13,500. 2. During the past five years, we have provided financial assistance to 558 clients which include 1,466 individuals. During 2008, the average assistance per client was $1,016, topping the $859 average in 2007. The range over the four and a half years is $65 to $3,323. 3. While 55% of our clients live in Framingham, the other 45% reside in Metro West as well as several cities and towns beyond that region. 4. Because we are sometimes asked about the racial breakdown of our clients, we do collect that data. At this time, 55% of our clients are White, 29% are Hispanic and 16% are Black. We do not discriminate against any groups as indicated in our Non-Discrimination Policy. 5. Ninety-seven (97) percent of all funds raised are spent to help these low income households. 6. We checked the housing status of 92 clients funded between June 30, 2008 and July 7, 2009.The data indicates that 95.7% of those clients are still permanently housed. Since our inception, over 91% of our clients have been permanently housed each time we have checked. 7. Three hundred eighty-nine families that include 724 children have been helped so far.
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