Family Promise of Scotland County reports success of $75K investment in homeless services

In the heart of Laurinburg, a beacon of hope shines brightly for families facing homelessness. At the recent Scotland County Board of Commissioners meeting, Christy Rusco, the executive director of Family Promise of Scotland County, shared an inspiring update on the organization’s progress and the impact of a significant $75,000 investment made by the county.

With a warm smile and a heartfelt message, Rusco introduced herself and her board members, emphasizing the vital role Family Promise plays in the community. Since February 2022, the funds have been instrumental in transforming the lives of families in need. Family Promise operates a traditional housing program that supports fathers, mothers, and guardians with children who are experiencing homelessness or financial insecurity. Their mission is clear: to provide shelter, food, and essential services that empower families to achieve sustainable independence.

Rusco highlighted the transformative effects of the funding, which has allowed the organization to hire a family support coordinator. This dedicated professional works closely with families, helping them set life goals and providing essential classes in parenting, budgeting, cooking, cleaning, nutrition, and job readiness. The results have been remarkable. In just six months, four families successfully graduated from the program, with all members either securing employment or advancing to better-paying jobs. Three of these families achieved this milestone in under 90 days, showcasing the effectiveness of the program.

The success of Family Promise of Scotland County is not just a statistic; it represents real lives changed. Rusco shared touching anecdotes about the children who now have the opportunity to start school and engage in sports, and the parents who have regained hope for a brighter future. With a national success rate of 84%, Family Promise stands as a testament to the power of community support and collaboration.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the partnership between Family Promise and Scotland County is making a significant difference. The commitment to helping families find stability and independence resonates deeply, reminding everyone present of the profound impact that compassion and support can have on a community.