Family Service Association of Howard County Inc. (FSA) announced that it has received a second $50,000 grant for Jackson Street Commons, a permanent, supportive housing program for chronically homeless veterans in Howard and Tipton counties. The general operating grant comes from the FCA Foundation, the charitable arm of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.
“We are so grateful for the continued support from the FCA Foundation for Jackson Street Commons. The Foundation’s partnership has been invaluable in our efforts to help homeless veterans,” said FSA Executive Director, Tracy Martino.
Located in Kokomo, Jackson Street Commons provides permanent housing for 27 veterans and their families using the National “Housing First Model,” an approach that centers on providing chronically homeless people – veterans in this case – with a home and then surrounds them with a variety of support services that will help with their stabilization. Opened in May of 2014, Jackson Street Commons is the third facility of its kind in Indiana.
“It is with ongoing community support that Jackson Street Commons provides housing and quality supportive services to help formerly homeless veterans become stably housed and work on the barriers that led to their homelessness in the first place. We are thankful for the generous contribution from the FCA Foundation to make Jackson Street Commons a place to call home for these veterans,” said Jackson Street Commons Director of Veterans Programs, Angie Ciski.
“We believe that one of the best ways that we can recognize the service and sacrifice of these brave women and men is to provide them with the tools and support they need to live their best lives,” Christine Estereicher, Chief Operating Officer – FCA Foundation said. “We are pleased to renew our support for Jackson Street Commons. Giving formerly homeless veterans a place that they can call home is a positive step for them, as well as the community.”
