Family Promise of Western New York

Family Promise of WNY is committed to helping low income families in Western New York to achieve lasting independence.

Family Promise of WNY (formerly: Interfaith Hospitality Network of Greater Buffalo) is a cost-efficient, effective, and replicable community response to homelessness. We bring together existing community resources, especially faith congregations to assist us with our mission. When a family loses its home, they are in crisis, and Family Promise of WNY responds to the call as one of only two local agencies that keep homeless families together as a unit. We do this through the following core services:

Host sites
Our host and support congregations provide lodging, meals and hospitality for our families in need. Each day begins with breakfast at a host congregation, provided by volunteers. At the end of the day, the guests return to the host congregation where volunteers provide dinner and support. The evening hours are relaxation times, as they would be for any family. The day ends with the family, together under one roof.

Day Center
Our van transports the guest family to our Day Center, located at 16 Glendhu Place, in Buffalo, where they can receive mail, catch the school bus, do laundry, shower, and most importantly, receive linkage to services such as finding housing and jobs.

Volunteers
Volunteers provide various services such as cooking and serving meals, playing with children, helping with homework, and interacting with guests showing respect and compassion.

Case Management & Follow-Up
Support services are provided by a professional Social Worker to help families link to needed services such as finding housing, jobs and benefits. Once a family leaves the IHN they are never alone. Family Promise of WNY stays in contact with families for as long as they need support.