the programs Backgrounds

Beatitude House: Sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown, the housing project was initiated in 1988 by Sister Margaret Scheetz. She believed education and counseling were the avenues out of poverty for homeless women and their children. In the Mahoning Valley, Beatitude House offers transitional housing for 31 mothers. In 2006, it expanded to offer permanent supportive housing for mothers who are disabled or women with children who are disabled. For information, call Beatitude House at (330) 744-3147.

Emmanuel Community Care Center: The program began in 1980 and operated out of St. Rose Church in Girard. A building, located at 2 N. State St., Girard, was purchased in 1994. Emmanuel center is a program of Humility of Mary Housing ministry, a system of nonprofit corporations providing housing and supportive services. Sponsored by the Sisters of the Humility of Mary, it has two components. The homeless prevention program that provides food, clothing, household items, short-term rent assistance, help with utility bills and eviction notices. A transitional housing program helps five single homeless mothers and their children. For information, call (330) 545-4301.