Family Promise and NCMEC: Protecting Children, Supporting Families

Family Promise is proud to partner with NCMEC to provide families experiencing homelessness and the professionals who serve them with information and access to reporting mechanisms, training to help identify missing and/or exploited children and prevention education resources.

1. What inspired you to get involved with NCMEC? 

Both Family Promise and NCMEC are dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and families, often during their most difficult times, so a collaboration seemed like a natural fit. Families experiencing homelessness face heightened risks of violence, victimization, and exploitation, which makes our shared mission even more urgent. Together, we’re expanding resources for families facing housing instability and creating valuable training opportunities for those working with at-risk populations. Family Promise shares expertise on housing and homelessness, and NCMEC provides insight into child safety and support for cases involving missing children.

2. Why are NCMEC’s resources important to be part of Family Promise’s services and mission?  

At Family Promise, our programs are designed to be trauma informed. Families experiencing homelessness often endure more than just the hardship of losing their home. They also undergo other profound losses - the loss of a family member, a job, a relationship, or even their health. NCMEC’s resources are unparalleled in helping keep children safe, which directly supports our work to prevent further trauma and victimization. Their tools also give us rapid access to critical resources when a child goes missing, ensuring we can respond quickly and effectively during a crisis. 

3. Are there any initiatives you think everyone should know about?  

One of the most important things to know about Family Promise is our holistic approach to supporting families facing homelessness. Our work begins with prevention, helping families stay in their homes and avoid homelessness in the first place. When shelter is needed, we are unique in keeping families together, unlike many traditional shelters that separate family members based on age or gender. Beyond shelter, we focus on housing solutions that provide long-term stability and expand affordable housing options nationwide. We also offer stabilization services to ensure families can thrive well into the future. This comprehensive model allows us to meet families where they are and walk alongside them every step of the way. 

4. What do you think is important for parents and families to know about Family Promise? 

Families should know that Family Promise is here to support them with dignity, compassion, and respect. We recognize that homelessness can happen to anyone, and our mission is to provide steadfast support as they navigate these challenges, ensuring they never have to face them alone. Through a range of tools, resources, and community support, including partnerships with organizations like NCMEC, we help families move toward lasting independence. Most importantly, we want families to know that there is hope for a bright future. Family Promise is committed to ensuring children have the security and stability they need to thrive.