TOLEDO -- A new study released this week shows that poverty has increased across the United States and that in Toledo more families are falling below the poverty line. Renee Palacios, Executive Director of Family House Toledo, says her shelter has seen an increase in families from the suburbs seeking shelter. "We had a family of four that came in with one suitcase, they sold all of their clothing, houseware and their car to keep up with their mortgage payment until the bottom falls out," Ms. Palacios said.
Family House is located at the old YMCA facility at 669 Indiana Avenue. The facility has 103 beds and residents are given three FDA-approved meals each day. There is an on-site day care facility that enables parents in the shelter to go to work. The website for the Family House is www.familyhousetoledo.org.
FOCUS, which stands for Family Outreach Community United Services, is another Toledo agency that offers assistance to families who have been evicted from their homes. Executive Director Kyle Grefe says her agency has seen a 30% increase in the need for services. "I think the impact of this depression cycle we are in is coming to bear," Mrs. Grefe said.
FOCUS is having their fall fundraiser on Friday, November 4. The event is taking place at the GESU Sullivan Center which is located at 2049 Parkside Boulevard from 6:30-10:30 p.m. Tickets are $55 per person. There will be casino style games and a live auction. To learn more about FOCUS log onto their website www.focustoledo.org.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWNWO