Family Advocacy Expansion

Housing and Homelessness

South Bay

Expand existing project, program, or initiative

Homelessness is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects individuals, families and even young children. Long Beach is the seventh most populated city in California, with 3,296 people experiencing some level of homelessness. This is a 62% increase compared to 2020, as the pandemic and rising housing costs have worsened the homeless crisis, putting more families in economic danger and increasingly putting rent costs of reach for many people. Of those we serve, 100% of our students have scored a 7 or higher on the ACE (Adverse Childhood Experience) Survey, 100% are below the poverty line and 76% are minorities. Precious Lamb aims to end the cycle of homelessness, by offering a holistic approach that supports the entire family unit. While our preschool offers quality, early education our Family Advocacy program provides resources, workshops, and support groups to empower parents, strengthen parent-child relationships, and provide a network of support.

Precious Lamb's Family Advocacy Program is designed to provide comprehensive support for parents that address the unique needs and challenges faced by these families and empower them to overcome the barriers to stability and self-sufficiency. 1. Case Management: Precious Lamb offers individualized case management services to families experiencing homelessness. Highly trained social workers work closely with families to assess their needs, develop personalized service plans, and provide ongoing support. 2. Housing Assistance: The Family Advocacy Program provides support and resources to help families secure stable housing. The social worker's assist families in accessing emergency shelters, transitional housing programs or permanent housing options. 3. Basic Needs Support: Precious Lamb recognizes the immediate needs of families experiencing homelessness. The Family Advocacy Program offers assistance with accessing essential resources such as food, clothing, hygiene items, and transportation. Our social workers help families connect with food banks, clothing assistance programs, and transportation services. 4. Access to Mental Health Services: The Family Advocacy Program connects families with healthcare services, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment as needed. They provide referrals to healthcare providers, assist with navigating health insurance options, and advocate for families' access to necessary services.

If Precious Lamb is given the support it needs to help families experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles County, several positive changes can be anticipated. 1. Reduced Homelessness: With increased support for families experiencing homelessness, there is a greater likelihood of reducing the number of families living without stable housing. Precious Lamb's interventions, including early childhood education, family advocacy, and housing assistance, can contribute to helping families regain stability. 2. Improved Child Well-being: By addressing the specific needs of children experiencing homelessness, such as trauma, disrupted education, and emotional challenges, Precious Lamb can significantly enhance child well-being. 3. Enhanced Educational Outcomes: By providing a strong foundation in preschool, children are more likely to be prepared for kindergarten and subsequent grades, increasing their chances of academic success and breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

We measure our success through comprehensive case management that addresses the unique needs of homeless families, offering access to healthcare, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, childcare, and other supportive services. 1.Housing Assistance: Our Family Advocacy team collaborates with housing organizations and government agencies to secure affordable and stable housing options. 2.Employment Support: We have established partnerships with local employers, job training organizations, and educational institutions to provide job placement assistance, vocational training, and educational opportunities for parents. 3.Collaborative Partnerships: Precious Lamb has partnerships with local shelters, nonprofit organizations, churches, and government agencies to coordinate efforts, share resources, and provide a continuum of care for families living below the poverty line.