The Charlotte CARE Center, formerly known as the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition, stands as a vital entry point for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Charlotte County, Florida. Open 365 days a year, the center provides crucial services and support, embodying the essence of the Charlotte Cares Program.
Emergency Shelter: Immediate Safety and Stability
At the heart of the Charlotte Cares Program is the Emergency Shelter, a low-barrier, safe haven offering supervised accommodation for up to 30 days. This immediate support is critical for individuals and families facing sudden homelessness. On any given day, the shelter provides a temporary home for 10 to 15 children and their families, underscoring its role in keeping families together during crisis. The program’s core philosophy is to swiftly transition clients from emergency shelter into permanent housing through intensive case management, prioritizing stability and family unity.
Housing First Approach: Pathways to Permanent Housing
The Charlotte Cares Program operates on a “housing first” approach, a proven model that prioritizes providing immediate permanent housing to individuals experiencing homelessness. Upon enrollment in the CARE Center, clients are thoroughly assessed and paired with dedicated counselors. These counselors collaborate with clients to develop specialized housing plans, focusing on achieving long-term housing stability. This approach recognizes that stable housing is the foundation for addressing other challenges and rebuilding lives.
Comprehensive Programs Under the Charlotte Cares Umbrella
The Charlotte Cares Program extends beyond emergency shelter and housing placement, offering a range of supportive programs accessible to anyone in need within the community, regardless of whether they are staying at the CARE Center.
Hunger Prevention: Nourishing the Community
The Hunger Prevention program, a key component of Charlotte Cares Program, ensures that anyone in need of a nutritious meal can access lunch and/or dinner. This program provides hot meals and operates a community food pantry, addressing food insecurity within Charlotte County.
VIEW MEAL SCHEDULE
Homeless Prevention: Proactive Intervention
The Homeless Prevention Program, another critical facet of Charlotte Cares Program, actively employs the “Housing First” model to assist chronically homeless individuals. This proactive approach emphasizes providing permanent housing without preconditions, recognizing housing as a fundamental right and a crucial step towards breaking the cycle of homelessness.
Bridges Out of Poverty: Addressing Root Causes
The Bridges Out of Poverty initiative, integral to the Charlotte Cares Program, delves into the underlying causes of generational poverty. This curriculum empowers participants with new knowledge, skills, and perspectives to address financial challenges at their own pace. Bridges Out Of Poverty offers practical and sustainable solutions for long-term financial stability and self-sufficiency.
For detailed information about any of these programs, please contact the Charlotte CARE Center directly at (941) 627-4313.
Support the Charlotte Cares Program: Donate and Make a Difference
The Charlotte Cares Program relies heavily on community support to sustain its vital services. Donations of supplies are gratefully accepted Monday – Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm at the Main Office located at:
1476 Kenesaw Street
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
For a list of current needs, please refer to the supply needs list.
Charlotte CARE Center’s Annual Mistletoe Ball: An Evening for a Cause
Join the Charlotte CARE Center on Saturday, December 14th, 2024, for the Annual Mistletoe Ball, a special evening dedicated to charity and community celebration. 100% of the proceeds from this event directly support the Charlotte Cares Program and its mission to combat hunger and homelessness in Charlotte County, FL. Your participation in the Mistletoe Ball directly contributes to providing essential services and hope to those in need through the Charlotte Cares Program.
By supporting the Charlotte CARE Center and the Charlotte Cares Program, you are investing in a stronger, more compassionate community for everyone in Charlotte County.
