Johnson named executive director of Family Promise of the Poconos

Timaki Johnson has been named Executive Director of Family Promise of the Poconos, Inc., as of July 1, 2024, replacing Enid Logan, who has retired. Ms. Johnson has worked for Family Promise for the past four years, beginning as a case manager and currently the Program/Staff Manager.

“I’m grateful to the Board of Trustees for providing me this opportunity to serve as executive director of an agency serving more than 1,300 households each year,’’ Johnson said. “I will be forever grateful to the community, our housing partners and our Board of Trustees, who supported my vision to expand services here at Family Promise,’’ Logan said.

Family Promise of the Poconos, serving Monroe and Pike counties, provides emergency shelter to homeless children and their families. In addition, the agency offers rent/utility assistance to prevent the onset of homelessness, as well as offering a variety of services including food, diapers and transportation.

Family Promise of the Poconos, Inc., formerly Family Promise of Monroe County, opened its doors in 2007 to serve the homeless in Monroe County. In 2018, Family Promise began serving residents of Pike County and in 2022 formerly changed its name to Family Promise of the Poconos, to better represent the agency’s service area. Family Promise plans to open a transitional housing facility in Pike County, to serve the homeless in the community. For more information on Family Promise’s program or to request assistance, visit their web site at www.familypromisepa.org

Public comment sought on grant application

Family Promise of the Poconos, Inc., plans to apply to the State of Pennsylvania for HOME-ARP Supportive Services. Family Promise welcomes public comment on its application for funds for qualifying populations residing in Monroe County for transportation ($95,250), case management ($126,375), financial assistance $245,452.50, short- and medium-term rent assistance, $390,000 and administrative costs to operate the program, $42,853.85.

Family Promise is also applying for HOME-ARP Support Services fund for Pike County’s qualifying populations for transportation ( $31,750), case management ($42,125), financial assistance, ($81,817.50), short-term and medium-term rent assist, $130,000, and administrative costs to operate the program, ($14,284.60).

A Public Hearing will be held at 6 p.m., Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 905 Main St., Stroudsburg, PA, 18360. Oral and written comments will be accepted during the public hearing. Written comments are encouraged and may be emailed to director@familypromisepa.org and received no later than July 9, 2024. Person(s) needing assistance reading this document, making responses or requiring special assistance to the public hearing, due to physical impairment or Limited English Proficiency are encouraged to email or call the Family Promise office at (570) 420-8589. In addition, a Zoom link may be accessed for those interested:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87675887460?pwd=XutxzWz3PNZAlbMZ2mXRuYCheoLBJV.1 

Homelessness in NEPA

Homelessness can happen to anyone at any age or socio-economic status. The rise in homelessness stems from different factors including unemployment, inflation, rising cost of food and transportation and mental health challenges. What impact does homelessness have on one's physical and mental health? What resources are available and how can someone on the brink of homelessness get help.