Teaching to Fish

Father Bill’s/Mainspring is an extraordinary non-profit/non-denominational organization whose mission is to end homelessness. It is both smart and compassionate, and truly makes a difference in people’s lives. I’ve been working with FBMS for six or seven years and am constantly impressed at how the organization teaches folks “how to fish” and doesn’t just throw them a can of tuna. This is evident in all of the programs that are offered to those who seek shelter or a meal. Two emergency shelters (in Quincy and Brockton) are the way many homeless men,women children seek refuge AND also find strategies to end their homelessness. They’re portals to better options. While providing the emergency services, FBMS offers medical and behavior support services as well as job training. Today I was at the Brockton facility and saw the Work Express team in action; these formerly homeless people are gainfully employed, earning money and learning life skills and job training. They no longer live on the street. Two new multifamily houses are being renovated and will soon be home to six previously homeless families. The Spring St Residences. in Brockton as well as a new facility in Hingham houses previously homeless veterans. FBMS does it right; I wish more organizations would follow their lead. FBMS is a gateway to a better life and it’s working.

http://helpfbms.org/page.aspx?pid=354