​A New Approach to Family Shelter ​

Launched in June 2020, our Apartment Shelter Program rents apartments in our organization’s name to serve as temporary shelter for families with children. Unlike traditional shelter settings, each apartment offers privacy, autonomy, and a sense of normalcy. Families can cook, rest, and care for their children in peace — without fear of theft, violence, or unnecessary restrictions.

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“A mom can take a shift at work while her teen watches a younger sibling after school — something most shelters don’t allow.”

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Today, thanks to generous support from #NightWithoutABed, Glick Philanthropies, and others, we operate 20 apartments across Indianapolis.

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How it Works?

• Fully furnished apartments are provided through donations and partnerships with The Mustard Seed of Central Indiana and local congregations or corporations.

• Families live in the unit temporarily while working with a Family Promise case manager to find permanent housing — usually within 30–90 days.

• Wraparound support includes help with:

  • Employment

  • Childcare and school enrollment

  • Health evaluations

  • Transportation

  • Mental health services

• If a family wants to stay and take over the lease, we support that transition. They keep the furnishings. If they move elsewhere, we provide them with donated furniture, housewares, and continued AfterCare for up to two years.

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Why It Works

• Cost-effective: The program costs 30% less than traditional shelters when accounting for staffing and operations.

• Dignity-focused: Families experience less disruption and greater independence.

• Scalable: Vacated units rotate to the next family in need.

• Low-barrier: No need for night staff or congregate care; families live independently with weekly check-ins and random drug testing for accountability.

• Built for stability: Renting on the private market allows families to seamlessly take over leases, minimizing moves that disrupt work, school, and health appointments.
   

This model mirrors successful refugee resettlement strategies used nationwide.

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