A home that provides safe and secure temporary housing for homeless families recently got a makeover. We’re told it’s all thanks to the community.
The Pocono Area Transitional Housing Program also know as PATH provides a safe haven for families experiencing homelessness.
PATH Executive Director Kandia Palmer says, "We not only house families, we provide them with the tools that they need to be able to be successful, to go into their own homes and not have to find themselves in this situation again."
The nonprofit is more than just a shelter, families are placed in one of its board in house facilities with furnished rooms and kitchens. Since 1990 they’ve taken in over 500 families.
Palmer says, "There is such a need in Monroe County and affordable housing is lacking right now."
The facility is free and families can stay up to a year but they have to put in the work.
Palmer says, "We provide them with life skills, money management skills, parenting skills, all the things that they need."
Now new paint, furniture, appliances and floors at one of its locations in Stroudsburg matches the programs promise of a fresh start.
PATH Administrative/Program Assistant Amanda Taylor says, "Our last renovation to the house was in 2008 and it definitely needed a little bit of TLC, bring things up to a modern look."
The home is currently helping five families with 14 children but it can accommodate up to 10. Now that the renovations are complete, they’re able to fill those rooms.
Taylor says, "Definitely set up and ready to always have a full house and be able to give our families exactly what they need to help them get back on their feet."
PATH depends on donations from the community. Thanks to an outpouring of support they’re only in need of cleaning supplies.
Palmer says, "We put out the poll on Facebook that we needed linens and beddings for our families and within 48 we maxed what we thought we would ever receive."
If you’d like to help now or in the future, you can find their Amazon Wish List on their website and Facebook page. Families helping families in Monroe County, Nicole Walters, News13.