The New Directions program helps Northwest Indiana families transitioning out of domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters, or families who lost everything due to a house fire. Through a referral system with 26 partnering organizations and fire departments, we assist families transitioning into a new home in desperate need of essential household items. We can pull together an entire house of furniture and household goods for 2 -3 families every month through donations we accept at our resale shop at entirely no cost to program participants.

Families in our program typically are placed in an apartment with absolutely nothing in it and often are sleeping on the floor. However, because of the support we receive from our community, Hearts In Motion can provide a whole household setup that includes couches, beds, tables, dressers, clothing, curtains, linens, and more to 30+ families on an annual basis.

The New Directions program helps families create a home, not just a roof over their heads. This type of support during a critical transition enables parents and children to focus on obtaining work, going to school, getting additional supportive services instead of wondering how they will afford dishes, clothing, towels, or a bed to sleep in. Our aim is to get families back on their feet faster as they take steps towards self-sufficiency.

Listen to Erica Fizer, host of "Neighborhood Voice," interview with Karen Scheeringa-Parra, founder of Hearts in Motion about the New Directions program.