Aftercare

Upon exit from the residential component of the Marian House Program, women are in dire need of a host of support services if they are to become productive and independent citizens. Ongoing support services are critical to combat recidivism.

The Aftercare Counselor brings the presence of Marian House to the women in their homes through occasional house visits and lunchtime chats. Staff members send birthday greetings and notes of encouragement, and respond when women relapse. Regular fellowship gatherings of former residents foster peer support. Continuing educational opportunities, especially those leading to the acquisition of a high school diploma, continued career counseling and employment referrals are essential components of the aftercare program. Women have begun to realize improvements in their earning power and job status. The aftercare coordinator assists individuals with financial matters such as debt reduction, credit repair, financial planning, and income tax preparation.

These aftercare services through Marian House are directly associated with overall stability in housing and improved quality of life for formerly homeless women, and often single heads of household and their children.