Combining supportive housing with employment preparation

Career Resources and ReFocus Outreach Ministry, a non-profit organization based in Bridgeport, have a forged a strong partnership over the past three years in order to bring employment and training and supportive services to women in the ReFocus transitional housing program. Now, the two organizations have brought their combined strengths to a new Supportive Housing Program – Refocused Resources. Career Resources manages the project, providing general programmatic oversight, reporting, and an employment preparation component. ReFocus Ministry provides case management and manages the day-to-day operations of the residential program.

Both organizations offer complimentary strengths: ReFocus’ strong residential program and intensive case management is supported by Career Resources’ expertise in training and employment. Career Resources will provide residents with three Individual Training Accounts (scholarships for occupational skills training), and the STRIVE Job Readiness program. The goal is to help residents improve their employment prospects, by providing them with the skills, resources, and support necessary for personal development and economic self-sufficiency,

The partnership is an effective model for the integration of One-Stop employment and training services with supportive housing services and is a good example of the ability of faith-based organizations to work cooperatively with secular non-profits to meet community needs.

For more information, visit  ReFocusOutreach.org