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Investing in the Whole Family
The power of partnership brings counting stars into focus to help families build stronger bonds
At Freedom House Ministries, the mission has always been to help families move from crisis to stability. Traditionally, much of that work has focused on addressing the barriers adults face — finding employment, securing housing, accessing transportation, or increasing living-wage income.
While these supports remain essential, we’ve learned an important truth: when a family experiences homelessness, every member of that family is affected.
This year, we’re taking an important step forward by investing more intentionally in the children served.
Thanks to the generous support of Jack and Engrid Meng, a new partnership was launched with Counting Stars, an innovative nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families through skill-building, behavioral support, and inclusive programming.
Together, new opportunities will be available for children living in shelter, while providing parents with practical tools and coaching that strengthen the entire family unit.
Through this collaboration, children have access to structured summer and after-school programming designed to build social skills, communication and emotional regulation, daily living skills, and confidence. Parents receive one-on-one coaching and support that helps them navigate behavioral challenges, establish routines, and create greater stability at home for their family.
This investment comes at a critical time. Many of the children who enter shelter have experienced significant disruption, trauma, and instability. Some are waiting months for formal assessments or specialized services.
During those waiting periods, families are often left to navigate challenges on their own. By partnering with Counting Stars, we can bridge that gap and provide immediate support when it is needed most.
To further strengthen this work, Freedom House recently hired a Success Advocate for Youth. This new position allows us to focus specifically on the needs of children during the summer months and throughout the after-school hours.
The Success Advocate for Youth works alongside families, helping children build positive relationships, develop life skills, stay engaged in school, and experience the consistency that is so important during times of transition.
Partnerships like this demonstrate what is possible when organizations come together around a shared mission. By combining the strengths of Freedom House, Counting Stars, and donor support, we are creating a model of care that recognizes the needs of the entire family.
When we invest in children, we strengthen parents. When we strengthen parents, we strengthen families. And when families thrive, our entire community benefits.
Together, we are building more than housing stability. We are building brighter futures.
