The Building Strong Foundations curriculum is key to equipping residents with the essential skills and knowledge to achieve sustainable living and enhance their overall well-being in their new community. The 7-module curriculum provides a comprehensive framework to help participants successfully transition into mixed-income communities. 

As residents prepare to move into their new housing units and communities, the program addresses the significant lifestyles changes that come with this transition. Living in mixed-income housing and neighborhoods requires understanding key responsibilities, such paying rent on time, maintaining property care, and developing good rapport with landlord and neighbors. Additionally, participants learn critical life skills, including financial responsibility, self-care for physical and mental health, supporting children’s education by becoming informed on child’s progress and school events. While these skills were always a part of a well-maintained community, reinforcing these skills are vital for individuals who may have spent generations in public housing and are now stepping into new environments with increased expectations. 

By equipping residents with these essential tools, Building Strong Foundations: Skills for Sustainable Living fosters empowerment, resilience, and a sense of community.

Module 1: Financial Literacy 

• Understanding budgeting and money management 
• Introduction to banking services and options 
• Strategies for saving and building credit 
• Identifying and avoiding predatory lending practices 
• Accessing community resources for financial assistance and support 

Module 2: Property Care 

• Basic maintenance skills for keeping the housing unit clean and functional 
• Identifying common household repairs and when to seek assistance 
• Creating a maintenance schedule for regular upkeep 
• Understanding tenant responsibilities and rights regarding property care 
• Collaborating with property management for maintenance requests and issues resolution 

Module 3: Self-Care 

• Importance of physical health and wellness 
• Strategies for maintaining a healthy lifestyle on a budget 
• Stress management techniques and coping mechanisms 
• Accessing healthcare services and resources 
• Building a support network and seeking help when needed 

Module 4: Mental Health Awareness 

• Recognizing signs of mental health challenges 
• Destigmatizing mental health and seeking support 
• Accessing mental health services and resources 
• Practicing self-care for mental well-being 
• Building resilience and coping skills 

Module 5: Education Systems for Children 

• Understanding the local education system and resources available 
• Navigating school enrollment and registration processes 
• Supporting children's academic success at home 
• Communicating with teachers and school staff effectively 
• Accessing extracurricular activities and educational enrichment programs 

Module 6: Tenant Responsibilities 

• Understanding lease agreements and tenant rights 
• Maintaining open communication with property management 
• Respecting community rules and regulations 
• Resolving conflicts with neighbors peacefully 
• Engaging in community events and initiatives 

Module 7: Additional Resources and Support 

• Accessing community organizations and support services 
• Exploring job training and employment opportunities 
• Identifying childcare and family support services 
• Connecting with legal aid and advocacy resources 
• Developing long-term goals and action plans for housing stability

If you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to help!