Introduction/Welcome/About the Handbook - Family Promise of Puget Sound

Welcome to the Family Promise of Puget Sound (FPOPS) Handbook for Individuals Served

1. Introduction and Our Commitment to You

Welcome to Family Promise of Puget Sound (FPOPS)! We are so glad you’re here. We understand that experiencing homelessness is incredibly challenging, and we are dedicated to supporting you and your family as you work towards stability and a brighter future. This Individual Handbook is a vital resource designed to explain how our program works, what you can expect from us, and what we hope for from you during your time with us. It outlines our commitment to providing compassionate support and the guidelines that help us create a safe and effective environment for everyone.

2. Purpose of This Handbook

The purpose of this handbook is to:

* Provide clear and consistent information about FPOPS’s program, services, and expectations.

* Outline your rights and responsibilities as a participant in our program.

* Foster a positive, respectful, and supportive environment for all families.

* Clarify FPOPS’s commitment to your safety, well-being, and progress.

* Ensure a shared understanding of our mission to empower families experiencing homelessness.

3. Who This Handbook Is For

This handbook applies to all individuals and families participating in Family Promise of Puget Sound’s programs and services. The principles and guidelines here are for everyone we serve, helping us all work together effectively.

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4. Our Guiding Principles

Our work with you is guided by these core principles:

* Clarity and Support: We aim to provide information and support in a clear, straightforward, and accessible way.

* Fairness and Respect: We are committed to treating every family with dignity, respect, and fairness.

* Safety and Well-being: Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We strive to create a secure and nurturing environment.

* Empowerment: We believe in your strengths and ability to achieve your goals. Our role is to support and empower you on your journey.

* Partnership: We see our relationship with you as a partnership. Your active participation is key to your success.

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5. Important Information: Guidelines, Not a Contract

This Handbook is intended to be an informational guide to help you understand our program. It is not, and should not be seen as, a contract between Family Promise of Puget Sound and any individual or family. The policies and guidelines described here are in place to help our program run smoothly and effectively for everyone. FPOPS may need to change or update these guidelines at any time, with or without notice, to best serve the needs of our community and comply with program requirements.

* Program Participation: Your participation in our program is voluntary. This means that either you or FPOPS may end the program relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, for any lawful reason.

* Policy Updates: FPOPS reserves the right to adjust, modify, or end any guideline, practice, or service described in this handbook at any time, with or without notice, consistent with program needs and legal requirements. We will notify you of any significant changes that affect your participation.

* Supersedes Previous Information: This handbook replaces any previous verbal or written information about FPOPS’s individual guidelines that may be inconsistent with its provisions.

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6. Our Shared Responsibilities

For the program to be successful, it requires a shared effort:

* Your Responsibilities as a Individual/Family Served: We ask that you read, understand, and do your best to follow the guidelines and procedures outlined in this handbook. If you have any questions, please ask your case manager or any FPOPS staff member for clarification.

* Case Manager/Staff Responsibilities: Our case managers and staff are responsible for understanding and consistently applying the guidelines in this handbook, providing you with guidance, and connecting you to resources.

* FPOPS Leadership Responsibilities: The FPOPS leadership team is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the guidelines in this handbook, ensuring they align with our mission to support families.

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7. Review and Updates to This Handbook

This handbook and its individual guidelines will be reviewed regularly by FPOPS leadership, or more frequently as needed, to ensure they remain current, effective, and supportive of the families we serve.