Helping to Stop Homelessness Before It Begins

Aug 21, 2024 at 02:36 pm by WGNS News



MURFREESBORO, TN - With the cost of rent going up year after year, it is getting harder and harder for struggling individuals to afford a deposit and pay the first month’s rent when planning to make a move. To make matters worse, it is nearly unbearable when sickness strikes… That was Maria Coggin with Barnabas Vision in Murfreesboro. The local non-profit works to stop homelessness before it begins by helping individuals figure out ways to pay rent when trouble hits.

The average rent in Murfreesboro is $1,286 per month and the average apartment is 731 square feet in size, which equals about $21 per square foot annually.

 

Helping with housing options is often done through volunteers and employees of Barnabas Vision, but that doesn’t always mean that the struggles are over…

Sometimes, help comes in the form of experiencing a small portion of life next to someone else who may be struggling. In fact, much can be accomplished during a variety of encouragement type groups and classes - - some just for women at the Barnabas offices on MTCS Road… To receive help or to volunteer with Barnabas Vision, call 615-556-5134 or visit TheBarnabasVision.org.

The special homelessness prevention program at Barnabas assists needy Middle Tennessee residents with rent and utility costs through emergency financial assistance. According to officials with the agency, they want to prevent these at-risk residents from becoming homeless or losing utility services.

Some of the needs Barnabas Vision may fill help with are:
• Rent • Rent Deposits • Electric bills • Water bills • Gas bills

Potential clients in need are encouraged to contact Barnabas Vision today for assistance (Click Here for Contact Details). Each client will be asked to complete an application. The organization's staff will conduct a telephone interview to assess the need and eligibility. Clients receiving assistance are then required to attend Barnabas Vision LIFE skills classes and submit documentation verifying identification and need.

Upcoming Fundraising Event: The fundraiser will be on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024 at 6PM. Special musical guests will be on hand at the event. David Coggin told WGNS the event is open to everyone, but you must RSVP to attend and to receive directions to the fundraiser. Call 615- 556-5134.

 

Tags: apartment Barnabas Vision Community Involvement David Coggin deposit donations homeless homelessness local support low-income families Maria Coggin Murfreesboro non-profit rent rental Rutherford County volunteers
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