R.A.F.T. - Residential Assistance to Families in Transition

RAFT provides services to those in distress through a structured residential program while empowering working families to overcome poverty and homelessness.

The RAFT program is not a hand-out, but it does provide a helping hand to those who are actively working towards becoming permanently stable. RAFT offers a temporary residential program in its 5 apartment facility so that families can achieve stability. Families develop an individualized service plan that consists of goals and includes a requirement for all adults to work and/or attend school for a total of 40 hours per week. Typical plans also include counseling, parenting classes, and involvement in various support groups. RAFT also provides on-site program components including case management, budgeting classes, and mentoring. Service plans build on the family's strengths and use these to overcome their barriers. RAFT not only focuses on the head of household (parent) but on educating the family. RAFT wants to end the poverty and homelessness cycle for the entire family. Education, employment, and finances are three main focus points of the program. Our program averages an approximate 85-90% success rate. In the last 5 years, we have had 0 families return to homelessness. RAFT originated in Kearney and has been in the community 29 years.

Testimonials

"RAFT has changed our lives for the better."
"RAFT teaches you how to trust people that actually want your life to be better."
"RAFT is about YOU doing, not THEM doing for you! Self-accountability is taught and guidance is given."