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Family Promise Participates in “Stronger Together” Community Series

May 21, 2026  | 
Family Promise of the Chippewa Valley

Family Promise Participates in “Stronger Together” Community Series

Family Promise of the Chippewa Valley was grateful to participate in the Stronger Together: Addressing Homelessness Locally series hosted by Lake Street United Methodist Church.

Panelists shared perspectives on housing instability, stigma, barriers to support, and the importance of building systems that help families remain connected to community and opportunity.

During the conversation, Executive Director Semone Thomas shared insight into the realities of family homelessness and the ways it often looks different than people imagine. Families may be living in cars, sleeping on couches, moving from place to place, or staying in unsafe situations simply because they have nowhere else to go.

The discussion highlighted the importance of continued partnership and collaboration among churches, community organizations, landlords, volunteers, and local leaders.

Semone also shared a personal reflection about once helping a woman whose car was stuck near a bridge. After offering her a ride, the woman asked, “Why are you helping me?” At the time, Semone answered simply — that her father was sick in another country, and she hoped that if she did good where she was, someone might help him where he was.

Looking back, Semone shared that the question stayed with her. What had that woman experienced that made kindness feel surprising?

That moment reminded Semone of families who come to Beacon House unsure if they can trust the support being offered. Many have experienced broken promises, judgment, or lack of follow-through. For families in crisis, consistency matters. Sometimes dignity begins with someone simply doing what they said they would do.

At Beacon House, Family Promise sees resilience every day. Families are not defined by the hardest moment in their lives. With support, stability, and opportunity, families can move forward.