HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-28-22 Public Comment - L. Hart - Family Promise RequestFrom:Lori Hart
To:Agenda
Subject:[SENDER UNVERIFIED]Public Comment
Date:Tuesday, June 28, 2022 5:58:21 PM
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To the City Commission,
My name is Lori Hart. I am a resident of the city (at 4579 Cascade), a real estate
professional, and have been a board member of Family Promise of Gallatin Valley the
last 4 years. I am writing to support the recent grant application submitted on behalf of
Family Promise.
Our housing crisis is no surprise to anyone. I can personally attest to the strain our
housing shortage has caused for many in our community. Our child care crisis,
however, may be more of a surprise, as recent statistics indicate that only ⅓ of our
child care needs are being met in our community. And, the average cost of childcare
exceeds the tuition to attend MSU as a full time student.
Family Promise has an exceptionally talented, creative and resourceful staff. These
committed individuals have allowed Family Promise to serve 685% more families the
last 2.5 years. In addition, they have overseen the construction and opening of the
first Family Promise Early Learning Center, which will serve 96 children ages 4 weeks
to 5 years of age with a stem based program.
During Covid, the staff transitioned families from a rotational shelter model to a static
shelter model. Though it was a necessary part of a response to COVID, the staff
found that this actually helped our families gain more stability faster. As a result of this
and the increasing needs in the community, the need for emergency shelter space
continues to grow. Further, A majority of the families served are single parents, who
desperately need affordable childcare so they can work.
Family Promise has continued to grow and evolve to wrap holistic solutions around
these families in need. But, they cannot do it without both government and private
support. I am asking for your support tonight to grant FPGV the requested funding in
the amount of $150,000. These funds will be used for additional shelter space and to
fund child care scholarships for families in need.
With Gratitude,
Lori Hart
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