Family Promise and Belk, the southern department store chain, have announced a $1 million partnership to empower mothers and help families thrive. The contribution is part of the retailer’s community outreach program, Belk: Project Hometown, in support of their mission to strengthen southern communities. Belk is also asking customers to share their love of community with Family Promise this Valentine’s shopping season by donating at the register now through March 2nd.
1 in 6 U.S. children live in poverty. 2.5 million children will experience homelessness this year. Family Promise is fighting this issue by working with parents and their children to provide the tools they need to sustain independent housing. 60 percent of the individuals Family Promise serves each year are children and most of the households served are led by single mothers.
“We are thrilled to be part of Belk’s commitment to its hometown communities. By partnering with Family Promise, Belk will change the lives of thousands of southern families. Our shared commitment to women, children, and community engagement makes us a natural fit. Together, we can end family homelessness in the region,” said Claas Ehlers, Family Promise CEO.
The $1 million contribution and customer donations will support existing Family Promise Affiliates throughout the retailer’s 16-state footprint and fund the development of 10 new Family Promise Affiliates in communities across the South. Together, these new Affiliates will engage roughly 10,000 volunteers to help provide shelter, rental assistance, workforce development, financial training, childcare and more to nearly 2,000 homeless and low-income family members each year. The new Belk-funded Affiliates will appear in the following cities:
- Pensacola, FL
- Tifton, GA
- Jackson, MS
- Greenville, NC
- Laurens, SC
- Aiken, SC
- Charleston, SC
- Murfreesboro, TN
- Rockwood, TN
- Beckley, WV
“Every child deserves a home, so we’re proud to partner with Family Promise as they work to keep families together when times get tough,” said Lisa Harper, Belk CEO. “This year, Belk is launching a campaign to share the love with friends, family and local communities, and Family Promise is the first of several national partners to receive donations. We hope this contribution inspires our customers to get involved, and together, we will impact the lives of neighbors in our communities and beyond.”
