Families

This program, helps low-income and welfare families break the cycle of poverty. The intent is to aid people, some of
whom are second- and third-generation public assistance recipients, to move toward self-sufficiency and into competitive
jobs.

The Job Readiness Training classes we started in mid 2008 have proven to been successful.  A total of 6 clients were
registered into the classes and completed all 12 sessions, which met four days a week for four hours.  Four (4) clients are
currently employed and two (2) are attending GED classes.  These individuals will receive supporative service and follow-
up assistance for one year prior to being discharged.

Families work with specialists to solve difficult pre-employment problems such as securing affordable health care, day
care, transportation and safe housing. In addition, specialists work with families to develop problem-solving skills needed
to leave public assistance programs and enter the work force. Families whose situation are complicated by alcohol and/or
drug abuse receive qualified treatment by OPEN M counselors and through partner agencies.

Once the family has found adequate employment, (e.g. a living wage, health benefits) the support team continues to
provide guidance for at least one year to insure the family’s success in continuing their independence and remaining
employed.

We continue to work with our core families helping move them  toward education and self sufficiency.  Likewise, we refer
to other agencies to provide encompassing services to our clients, such as:

  • The Benefit Bank  (eligibility for government programs and filing taxes)
  • CORE Furniture Bank St. Vincent De Paul Inspired  (furniture, small appliances, dishes, sheets, blankets,
    rugs and silverware)
  • Pregnancy Care  (referral for cribs, car seats and education)
  • Love INC - St. Paul’s Episcopal Church  (utility services)
  • Community Legal Aid  (expungement, credit, debt & bankruptcy, identity theft, driver's license suspension)























    *  Close estimate


ITEMS ALWAYS IN NEED:         
  • Toilet paper
  • Paper towels
  • Tissues
  • Toothpaste and toothbrushes
  • Lotion


For additional information please contact:
Celebrating Over 40 Years......
    Feeding the Hungry
    Caring for the Sick
    Nurturing Children
    Supporting Families
    Strengthening Neighborhoods
941 Princeton Street
Akron, Ohio 44311
330.434.0110

A Beacon of
Hope
in the Heart
of the
City
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OPEN M
A Ministry of
Faith, Health & Hope

1 9 6 8  -  2 0 0 9
2008 Services Received
Numbers
Housing Assistance
19
Utility Assistance (gas, electric or water)
45
Transportation Assistance (bus passes)
89
Job Readiness Training Sessions Completed by Clients
24
Project Homeless Connect
253
National Night Out
200 +
Neighbor's Day Akron
200 +
Office Visits *
244
Client Resumes' Completed
19
Community Meetings/Workshops Attended by Social Worker
29
Christmas "Gifts of Love" Assistance
1,249 individuals
Furniture Voucher Referrals  (CORE home visitations by Social Worker)
21
Ohio Benefit Bank Assistance (Including taxes, food stamps, H.E.A.P. and Childcare)
58
Community Legal Aid (Held at OPEN M 4th Thursday each month)
120
All other supportive services *
30