For many, the word homelessness is often associated with stereotypes, although these perceptions do not apply to everyone experiencing homelessness. We have been misinformed to think all people in this situation are mentally ill or have chosen this life on the streets. But as Joann Bjorson, CEO of Family Promise in Morris County, explains, “The reality is that homelessness affects working individuals, families with children, seniors, veterans, and people who have experienced a financial setback, a health crisis, domestic violence, or a sudden housing loss.
She goes on to say, “Homelessness does not define a person. It is a housing crisis, not a character flaw. The families and individuals we serve are resilient, hardworking people who are doing their best to navigate difficult circumstances. By understanding this reality, we can replace stigma with compassion and work together to create solutions that help people regain stability and thrive.”
Through her work with Family Promise, she and her dedicated team meet the needs of the people they serve with “a safe place to stay, housing and housing stabilization, or a welcoming place to connect during the day.”
Did you know?
· There are 680 homeless persons in Morris County. [monarchhousing.org]
· 91 people were unsheltered (living outdoors, in vehicles, or other places not meant for
· habitation). [monarchhousing.org]
· 90 people were identified as chronically homeless. [monarchhousing.org]
· The income range for affordable housing eligibility is $38,000 to $78,000, debunking the myth that only the very poor qualify.
These numbers are startling, but Morris County is not alone. Similar statistics appear in many of our own areas, yet many remain unaware of the problem's magnitude. You might be surprised to learn that your childcare provider or the barista at our local coffee shops cannot afford to live in the community of their choosing. Would you look at them differently if they told you they were homeless?
One of the biggest ways Joann and her team help is at the Our Family Promise Drop-in Center in Morristown. Here, they provide anything a client may need, from a warm cup of coffee and mail services to a place to rest and a kind hug. The center provides what people need most: a chance to “be seen, respected, and find human connection.” The drop-in center is a hub for services, including case management, therapy, workforce development, and arts programs, often delivered in partnership with other nonprofits.
Understanding that it takes a village to affect real change, they collaborate with other community members, including Navigating Hope (an outreach van with Morris County Human Services), Market Street Mission (providing showers and thrift store vouchers), and Table to Table (food donations). The organization emphasizes not working in isolation and sharing resources with other agencies, including County College of Morris and local nonprofits. This collaborative approach enables a broader range of services and more effective client support.
Like many programs today, money is tight, and federal funding covers only about 50% of the need. With a policy shift from permanent to short-term housing, many clients are struggling to maintain eligibility. But the passion, energy, and commitment to their cause are clear in Joann’s voice. For over 21 years, the staff has been going strong and housing as many as they are able.
As a community, we have a responsibility to respond to this housing crisis. Luckily, there are many ways to get involved. The easiest way is to contact them and donate. But if you want to get more involved and roll up your sleeves, you can volunteer at the drop-in center, in the office, or in the programs themselves. If you are a business owner, they always need printing, marketing, or catering and are looking for in-kind donations. Joann put it perfectly when she said, " We need your time, talent, and treasure.” If you want to help, they will find a place for you to serve.
https://www.familypromisemorris.org/
"The families and individuals we serve are resilient, hardworking people who are doing their best to navigate difficult circumstances."