Dupaco and Opening Doors partner to move the homeless to housing
DUBUQUE, Iowa—In partnership with Dupaco Community Credit Union, Opening Doors will offer the Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin’ By World Curriculum to women who are staying in transitional housing programs at Maria House and Teresa Shelter.
The curriculum puts the concepts, tools and relationships in the hands of people in poverty to make a difference in their lives and in the life of their community, according to aha! Process. It helps people living in poverty have a more prosperous future and aligns with the vision of Opening Doors.
How the partnership works
Opening Doors, in collaboration with existing community resources and services, offers a variety of opportunities for women to affirm their dignity and become empowered members of the community.
While the City of Dubuque offers this training, limited class sizes and transportation are barriers for Opening Doors participants. Opening Doors hopes for a great completion rate by offering the curriculum on-site, where women have established a trusting relationship.
As part of a $9,327 grant provided by the Dupaco R.W. Hoefer Foundation, the program will offer each participant up to a $640 stipend for completing the program.
The stipend can help participants with costs associated with gaining permanent housing. These costs include the first month’s rent and security deposit for an apartment.
After completing the program, participants will continue to receive ongoing money coaching and training from Dupaco.
“The mission of Dupaco Community Credit Union is to improve each member’s financial position,” said Joe Hearn, Dupaco president and CEO. “The Dupaco R.W. Hoefer Foundation grant emphasizes education and a jump start for participants’ financial sustainability. I see complete alignment with this project, and I am excited to see these funds be put to use to help the residents of Maria House or Teresa Shelter to achieve their full potential.”
Learn more about Opening Doors
Since opening in 2000, Opening Doors has served 2,525 homeless women and children.
The organization serves women, alone or with children, who need emergency or transitional housing and related support services. You can learn more about Opening Doors here.
Opening Doors is a proud United Way agency.
