DERRY — As Family Promise of Southern New Hampshire continues to renovate its new Derry facility, a portion of the costs will be covered by a donation from a New Hampshire-based bank.
Merrimack County Savings Bank, also called The Merrimack, donated $10,600 to the Nashua-based nonprofit that provides temporary housing to homeless families.
“This second location allows us to provide a warm, safe home to more families experiencing homelessness throughout Western Rockingham County,” said Pamela Wellman, executive director of Family Promise of Southern New Hampshire. “We are grateful to The Merrimack and all the donors who support our mission.”
Family Promise of Southern New Hampshire received approval from the Derry Planning Board in September 2023 to open a new location at 12 Peabody Road, formerly Vintage Grace.
It is currently expected that the renovation and construction of the center will be completed in early 2025.
“As homelessness increases, it is important that we give back to local organizations on the front lines,” said Linda Lorden, president of The Merrimack. “Family Promise has helped families transform their lives and futures.”
Board member Marc Siragusa said at the 2023 Planning Board meeting that the center will house up to nine families in dormitories.
The organization does not accept individual applicants and places an emphasis on families. All incoming residents must pass a background check before they can move in.
In addition to housing, families also receive the guidance, education and support needed to regain stability and achieve long-term success, Siragusa said.
“It’s a more practical approach; we don’t just bring them a bed and a meal,” Siragusa said. “The goal is to get [residents] get back on their feet and teach them real-life skills that everyone should have.
Siragusa said the dormitory style means each apartment will have its own bedroom, bathroom and part of the living space, but the kitchens and recreation areas will be shared with everyone.
Siragusa said most families who go through the program will stay for about a year before moving into permanent housing. He said 90% of graduates will still have housing a year after completing the program.
“With this expansion, we are committed to our integrated case management services, including career search, family education and financial literacy programs,” Family Promise said in a statement. “Our goal is to empower families to regain stability and achieve long-term success. We are grateful for the community’s continued support and look forward to making a positive impact. Together we can build a better future for families in need.”
