At Portland Mennonite Church, we are part of a new effort in NE and SE Portland to bring Family Promise to our area. Though the pandemic is delaying a start date till winter 2022 at the earliest, explore this page to learn more.
What is Family Promise?
Family Promise is a rotating family shelter. Communities—usually churches—come together to provide overnight shelter to three to four families at a time. Each church or organization takes one week every quarter, providing meals, hospitality, and safe, separate sleeping areas for each family.
Has this been done before?
YES! Family Promise has 200 affiliates in 43 states. That’s 200 other groups doing what we’re trying to do here in Portland. Currently there are four Family Promise affiliates in the greater Portland area (Hillsboro, Beaverton, Tualatin and Vancouver).
Is another family shelter needed in Portland?
There is a great need for more shelter for families experiencing houselessness in Portland. Our own congregation experienced this firsthand a few years ago as we saw how difficult it was for a family we were partnering with to get into shelter.
How can I help?
We would love for you to join us. Here are some opportunities:
- Serve on our PMC Family Promise Committee
- Roles that need to be filled: Volunteer Coordinator, Committee Chair
- Bring dinner for the families.
- Be an overnight host.
- Be an evening host.
- Help setup and breakdown for our host week.
- Serve at a sister church during their Family Promise week.
- We also welcome our neighbors who would like to serve!
Have questions: Contact Britt Carlson, Susan Voss-Rothmeier (Portland Metro East Board Liaision), Paula Brunk Kuhns (Food Coordinator), or Bruce Kuhns.
Hear about our very own Elyse’s experience serving with Family Promise in Colorado Springs, Colorado ^^^
