Salem Interfaith Hospitality Network

Programs: The primary focus of salem ihn is the interfaith hospitality network comprised of 19 host and 23 supporting congregations that provide overnight housing, food and compassionate assistance to homeless families. Each host congregation commits to hosting at least one week per quarter. During the day, families without jobs are transported to our day center where they work with case managers to access community and employment resources they need to reach their goals and prepare for a sustainable independence. In 2016, we provided 4,814 bed nights of temporary shelter and 14,430 meals; serving 32 family units consisting of 49 adults and 70 children. Ihn provides transportation, clothing and other necessities while families are in the program.

the second major focus of the organization is a rental assistance program called fresh start. This program ensures each family served through ihn has the opportunity to move from temporary to permanent housing while continuing to work with case managers and receive ongoing support while they continue to achieve their goals. The after care is critical to preventing a recurrence of the issues that caused them to become homeless. Salem ihn provides temporary rental assistance during the transitional period. In 2016, 52 families received financial and soft services through this program. Families come to weekly workshops on a variety of subjects based upon their individual needs for as long as necessary to keep them successfully in their homes.

salem ihn also provides a facility and program funding for families who are in transition or temporarily homeless to keep their dog or cat at the shelter with them. The families are involved in caring for their pets and are able to keep their family - including their four-legged members - together during a difficult time while on the road to a sustainable home. In 2016, we served 12 pets with 461 nights of shelter.