Effort Possible through Town of Franklin ARPA Funds

SAFE Coalition, a local nonprofit agency, is proud to offer ARPA-supported services to the Town of Franklin’s housing-insecure population. 

A longtime partner with Franklin’s local schools, police, fire, faith, and civic communities, SAFE is dedicated to enhancing the security and wellness of each individual and family they connect with. SAFE has become a staple in the community for local, no-cost, accessible care, understanding that partnering with other systems of care offers the greatest opportunity for success for those receiving support.

In 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act federal stimulus bill (ARPA) was created to address public health and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. This bill included support for rental and housing services, affordable housing initiatives, utility assistance, grant programs for tenants and landlords, food security programs, childcare, and community outreach services. 

In receiving an ARPA grant from the Town of Franklin in 2024, SAFE increased their ability to meet the needs of residents experiencing housing insecurity and the issues that come with it. 

“We are excited to support our community and know we can meet the shifting needs of those asking for help,” says Jen Levine, CEO and co-founder of SAFE. “SAFE is the dedicated non-profit in Franklin doing this work. These funds have allowed us to provide necessary, direct, and timely care to all Franklin residents.” 

Over the last eight months, SAFE has been providing consistent, compassionate support to sheltered and unsheltered homeless populations through an array of services:

• One-on-one support planning with staff social worker. Housing insecure individuals receive guided assistance assessing needs, connecting with resources, wellness checks, and creating a 90-day plan to execute their goals

• Welcomed the South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) into parttime office space at SAFE HQ, connecting people with federal housing vouchers

• Skill-supported pipeline for helping people apply for state-aided, subsidized housing system CHAMP, health insurance, SSI, SSDI

• Transportation access to help people reach emergency housing and shelters

• Rental assistance program for housing-precarious families

These services empower people to make decisions in their own best interest. 

“I honestly don’t know how to thank you guys,” said a client recently, “you literally saved us. I am beyond thankful. I would love to give back if there are any volunteer opportunities.”

SAFE believes that when we uphold the dignity of our housing-insecure neighbors, we support the building of relationships and the strengthening of our community. 

Those looking to get involved with SAFE’s housing support initiatives can do visit www.safecoalitionma.org or email [email protected].