DOWNTOWN MINISTRIES OF GOSHEN INC

The Downtown Ministries Transitional Housing Program for Women provides stable housing and supportive services to help women with children achieve self-sufficiency. During the 2025-2026 program year, the program served multiple households in Elkhart County. The following case example illustrates the program's impact. In summer 2025, Downtown Ministries placed a single mother and her toddler in the Clinton Street Home. At program entry, the participant was unemployed, lacked reliable transportation, had a suspended driver's license, did not have childcare, and had no savings plan. She also had limited community support systems. The participant enrolled in the program's 12-month transitional housing model and actively engaged in required classes, mentoring, and case management. Within seven months, she demonstrated significant progress toward stability for herself and her child. Outcomes achieved during this period include: Completion of workforce development and financial education courses offered through Downtown Ministries Securing full-time employment with a local employer Establishing consistent, reliable childcare for her toddler Reinstatement of her driver's license and acquisition of a vehicle through a ministry-supported program Development of a savings plan with the goal of long-term housing stability upon program completion The participant attributes her progress to the coordinated support provided by program staff, volunteer mentors, and community partners, including housing support, employment readiness training, transportation assistance, and relational support. This example reflects the program's mission to reduce housing instability and support families as they work toward economic independence.

Employment Program. Jobs for Life is a 10 week workforce development program that provides job readiness, life skills, and character development to support sustainable employment. During the reporting year, a participant completed the program, obtained employment, and subsequently advanced into a supervisory role, demonstrating increased job stability and career progression. Financial Education Program. Faith and Finances is a 10 week financial education program that helps participants develop budgeting, saving, and money management skills. One participant reduced discretionary spending, established an emergency savings fund for the first time, and demonstrated improved financial stability. Trauma Recovery Program. This 10 week trauma focused program uses guided discussion to help participants identify unhealthy thought patterns and cycles resulting from past experiences. Participants work toward emotional healing and healthier relationships. During the year, one participant reported significant personal growth after addressing unresolved family trauma, contributing to long term emotional restoration. Addiction Recovery Program. Ready Now Recovery, offered in partnership with Adult and Teen Challenge, is a 36 week addiction recovery program providing group support and personalized growth planning. During the reporting year, a participant gained insight into underlying factors contributing to substance use and began the recovery process, supporting progress toward long-term sobriety.