Catholic Charities Increases Housing Services for Clients    

OKLAHOMA CITY — Safe and affordable housing is a primary need of many of the families seeking assistance at Catholic Charities in Oklahoma City.  Through Casa Maria, Catholic Charities will offer housing, support, and direction these families need to move forward to permanent housing and self-sufficiency, said Alma Burrell, Director of Family Support Services for Catholic Charities.  

On September 23, a dedication will be held to celebrate the completion of the Casa Maria House located in northwest Oklahoma City.  The public is invited to attend the dedication and blessing of the property at 11 a.m. at the Casa Maria House, 613 N.W. 30th Street.   Families are scheduled to move in beginning October 1, 2004,  

“Families served by Catholic Charities are often working, but their income has not been sufficient enough to maintain housing and accomplish the goals that will help them climb out of the traps of poverty.  We are very excited to have additional housing to assist these families,” Burrell said.

The development of Casa Maria has been made possible through extensive community collaboration with the City of Oklahoma City and with Neighborhood Services Organization.  

Casa Maria is a six-unit apartment building.  Families referred to the program work in partnership with a case manager to define their goals and develop a plan for accomplishing those goals.  Families referred to the program are homeless or at risk of being evicted from their residence.  Families may reside in the program no longer than 12 to 18 months, with a goal of moving from Casa Maria to a permanent home.  While in the program, clients receive assistance with budgeting, accessing community services, building job skills, and other areas as indicated.  

For more information on how to become involved with Casa Maria by making a referral, participating as a volunteer, or making a contribution, please contact Alma Burrell, Family Support Services at Catholic Charities, at (405) 523-3012.