Lawton, OK and Harrisburg, PA: Affiliates #160 & 161

Lawton Raises the Banner

Family Promise of Lawton (FPL) became the second Affiliate in the Sooner State. Efforts began in earnest in September of 2008, with a community meeting at Centenary Methodist Church kicking things off and their sister network in Shawnee guiding the way as they pushed forward.

FPL comprises 11 host congregations, a donated van and a temporary Day Center at Grace Fellowship Church. A local benefactor has committed to underwriting a permanent Day Center once a suitable site is found. Funding for the Affiliate has come from individuals and several small grants, as well as events in partnership with local corporations. Sarah Head is the network director and has a varied background in social work and volunteer management.

Lawton took in its first family on October 18th. They now have two families in the program, both of which had been staying at the local Salvation Army shelter.

Family Promise of Harrisburg Capital Region (FPHCR) opened the week after Lawton. Their first community meeting was held in October of 2007 at Tree of Life Lutheran Church.

They have 13 host congregations spanning the greater Harrisburg area, which covers two counties and nearby cities such as Hershey and Camp Hill. The Day Center is a lovely colonial house on the main street of Dillsburg, adjacent to an elementary school. The network is still seeking a van, and is renting one until they can acquire their own. FPHCR’s network director is Krissy Kline, a recent MSW with extensive experience in social work.

Their first family is a mom with an 8 year-old and twin 3 month-olds. Mom has already had several job interviews and looks to be able to secure her independence soon. A second family will be entering the program this week.

Welcome, Lawton and Harrisburg!