Faith Partnership Helps the Homeless

Information by State  Print version   Executive Director Larry Bross welcomes visitors John (center) manages the kitchen and cooks two meals each day

Helping the homeless in Oklahoma City got a boost from a faith-based organization in collaboration with HUD and other partners. A brand new facility, called Pershing Center, opened in September and will provide a full array of supportive housing services for the homeless.

The Center expands on efforts begun by City Care in 1999. City Care is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with Citychurch, a nondenominational church serving the inner city. The campus has 60 apartment units equipped with kitchenettes and bathrooms. Several are handicap accessible, and some will accommodate couples.

Pershing Center provides its residents with an address and access to a telephone messaging service. These are critical resources when you are trying to land a job and get your life back together. Other notable features of the Center include a computer lab and counseling services such as employment assistance training, substance abuse, and life skills training. It has an outstanding kitchen/cafeteria managed by a graduate of City Care's Programs.

HOME program funds from HUD through the City of Oklahoma City are a major source of funding for the Pershing Center. Other resources for this $3.7 million facility include Low Income Housing Tax Credits, Affordable Housing Program funds from Bank One, and several donors in the faith community.

Residents pay rent equivalent to 30 percent of their gross income and may stay at the Center for up to two years. According to the Executive Director, Larry Bross, City Care hopes to establish lease-purchase homes nearby in the future. As qualified residents transition to independent living, they may also have a chance to become homeowners.