Salvation Army Grace Place

About

The Salvation Army of St. Croix County provides emergency assistance services.

Story

Our goal is to promote self-sufficiency by providing a safe and secure environment giving individuals the opportunity to overcome unresolved issues. Through education, individuals are encouraged to be responsible for themselves and others. We provide the skills to make appropriate choices for a healthy value
system creating strong families and safe communities.
Upon departing from our programs we want to ensure all clients are permanently housed and have a relapse prevention plan in place. By offering educational opportunities and access to all community assistance programs, we provide the tools for continued success.

Mission

To provide stability to low income families and individuals by offering services that address their needs.

Products

Programs and Activities offered at Grace Place facility:

Basic needs:
Clients are provided with all food and personal care items. If individuals require dental care, medical, mental health or prescriptions those needs are also accommodated.
We provide on site job coaching and resume writing to prepare clients for job opportunities. Partnering with Work Force Connections (W2-Agency), human resources departments,
Employment:
Workforce Resource Center and a variety of employment agencies we are able to assist residents with an active job search. Clients are required to provide written variation of all job interviews. This is discussed at case management twice weekly. At the time of employment volunteers and staff provide transportation to work if needed. We also provide funding for uniforms or special clothing needs. Transportation is provided to WITC New Richmond where clients take part in a series of 4 job readiness classes.
Housing:
Working with the client we are able to assist in their search for affordable housing. We have a volunteer meet with clients once a week to aid clients in filling out rent applications and locate housing options. West Cap, The Salvation Army, and work Force Connection are able to provide financial help with first month rent and damage deposit. Meeting with Human Services is
Strongly encouraged so all programs that provide financial help are used to help secure permanent housing.
Budgeting:
Two budgeting classes are available to the residence. We have partnered with a church; they offer a 6 week course discussing wants and needs, developing a spending plan and reducing debt. We also have volunteer present basic budgeting information which includes activities to do as a family for free, the different wants and needs for each family member has and resolving conflicts over money. Clients receive a budgeting kit which encourages participation. “Fun Family Cooking” involves the whole family. As a group we prepare a meal as a family activity. During the cooking time we discuss how to provide nutritious meals for your family on a budget. Food resource information is provided
Transportation:
In rural Areas Car transportation is essential, due to the lack of public transport. We have partnered with a local Church to provide an opportunity for clients to receive a used car free of charge. Upon completing a six week budgeting course, submitting a grant application and working with a budget mentor for one year. This goal will be achieved. At this time any issues requiring a valid driver’s license are also addressed.
Adult Education:
Any clients interested in work on their GED tutoring and financial assistance are available. Attending AA or NA meetings are strongly encouraged. Meetings are offered at our facility 3 days per week.
Tutoring for children:
Most children that are homeless are 1 ½ to 2 years behind in school. We require all school age children to attend after school tutoring program. Our coordinator contacts each child’s teacher to determine areas that needs academic improvement. Volunteers work individually with each student daily to complete homework and practice remedial skills. Most students improve ½ grade level during their 60 day stay. This also provides after school day care.

Other programs offered in St. Croix County

Happy Kids Backpack program:
Working with the Somerset schools, New Richmond Schools and St. Croix County Head Start we are able to provide backpacks filled with kid friendly food items every Friday. Families receiving free and reduced lunches during the week are eligible for this program. Each pack includes a coupon for fresh milk and bread, peanut butter, jelly, mac and cheese, cereal and ingredients for one evening meal. Empty back packs are returned every Monday, restocked to be delivered on Friday.
Somerset food Pantry:
Our pantry provides food for Somerset area residences. Due to the fact our facility is staffed 24 hours per day we are the only facility in the area able to supply emergency food. Emergency food is provided to any St. Croix County resident.
Moola for Milk:
Milk coupons are currently being provided to all food pantries in St. Croix, and Pierce Counties. Clients receive a coupon at each pantry visit for 1 gallon of milk. Coupons are redeemed at a local grocery store. The merchants submit a monthly invoice for reimbursement. Currently we are providing 10,000 gallons of milk annually in our service area.
Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA):
Individuals or families participating with this program are required to pay 30% of their income towards housing.
Our case management meets with families or individuals weekly to discuss their goals as they move towards self sufficiency. By partnering with other agencies such as Family Resource Center, Family Means, University Extension and St. Croix County we are able to provide a comprehensive program.
Prevention services:
The Salvation Army provides rent, utility, transportation, emergency shelter, medical and dental assistance to residence in St. Croix and Polk Counties. In most cases offering this support allows individuals and families to remain in their homes.