Rena Rowan Damone's memories of a childhood dislocated by war and her later experience of divorce, when she became solely responsible for her four children, have inspired her vision for Rowan Homes. Those memories and her generous spirit were vital to the creation of Project H.O.M.E.'s Rowan Homes. Rowan Damone, cofounder of the Jones New York fashion empire, provided $1.5 million in seed money for the project.
Rowan Homes, opened in 2000 by Project H.O.M.E. in partnership with Rena Rowan Damone, consists of a total of 40 homes for previously homeless families with special needs. Located on Judson and Diamond Streets in North Philadelphia, Rowan Homes provides one of the few permanent supportive-housing programs in the nation for homeless, single-parent families who have faced addiction or emotional problems. To qualify for residence, the parent must be working or in the process of looking for a job or getting an education. He or she must agree to see a caseworker and to pay rent, set at 30 percent of income. In return, families receive counseling, job training, after-school and adult-learning programs, nurse-managed health care, and, of course, a home. And in addition to safe and comfortable housing, the Rowan Homes sites feature community space, quiet courtyards, and a playground.
The third phase of Rowan Homes will offer homeownership opportunities for families who are prepared to take that next step. Together, the three Rowan Homes sites will address the needs of 75 formerly homeless families suffering from drug addiction or mental illness.
Given her personal history, her commitment to the causes she cares about, and these hope-filled new opportunities in North Philadelphia, one understands when Rena Rowan Damone says that Rowan Homes gives her "goose bumps."
For more information about Rowan Homes, contact:
Nicole Drake Program Coordinator Rowan Judson nicoledrake@projecthome.org |
Crystal Johnson Program Coordinator Rowan Diamond crystaljohnson@projecthome.org |
Or visit Project H.O.M.E.'s website at http://www.projecthome.org .
Project H.O.M.E.
1515 Fairmount Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19130
