Our partnership with the Wilmington Housing Authority continues to flourish. Through WHA’s lead abatement and environmental safety training, residents are gaining hands-on skills and certifications that put them on track for well-paying jobs. It’s been inspiring to watch our participants step confidently into opportunities in construction, housing inspection, and environmental safety. These certifications truly broaden the horizon for residents’ building job skills. This work is powered by our focus on workforce development, and we’re proud to see residents enter training programs that increase both skills and long-term earning potential.
This year, seven Sojourners’ Place residents, including Jamie F. and Lakya M, Sojourners’ residents pictured above, completed the training program and received WHA Certification.
Employment & Economic Stability Outcomes
Thanks to certification training, case management, and support from valuable partners including WSFS Bank, Goodwill and Chase Bank volunteers, residents are making big strides:
· 7 participants graduated with WHA Lead Certification
· 24 participants obtained employment
· 13 participants-maintained employment for 90 days
· 7 participants-maintained employment for 180 days
· 12 participants are currently employed
· 7 participants are actively engaged in job search
Out of Poverty Program Update
Our Out of Poverty (OOP) program remains a foundational part of every resident’s journey. This year, residents worked through budgeting, financial literacy, stress and time management, and goal-setting—skills that prepare them for both employment and independent living.
We’re happy to share that 19 residents completed the program this year. Each graduate finished the course with a resume, personal budget, and long-term goal statement that reflects their hard work and vision for the future.
A new class of 10–15 residents begin later this month, and 13 residents are already enrolled—continuing to build on our total of 52 graduates who have completed this transformative program.
Housing Outcomes
Financial stability is central to long-term success, and our residents commit to saving 75% of their earnings while in the program. This gives them the foundation they need for deposits, shared housing opportunities, or their own apartment when they transition out.
This quarter:
· 8 residents secured affordable housing
· 1 resident is actively searching for housing
These numbers represent more than milestones—they represent independence, stability, and the promise of a fresh start.