In the heart of Miami, Carrfour Supportive Housing stands as a source of hope for many individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. As part of their holistic approach to supportive housing, Carrfour partnered with the Purpose Built Families Foundation to provide PAIRS relationship skills training to both their staff and residents. This collaboration, funded through a generous grant from the Unlikely Collaborators Foundation, has become a cornerstone of Carrfour’s success, fostering stronger, healthier relationships within the community and contributing to the overall well-being and stability of its residents.
Carrfour’s mission is to end homelessness by providing permanent, supportive housing and ensuring residents have access to the services they need to thrive. However, the challenges faced by residents often go beyond securing a stable home. Many have experienced trauma, broken relationships, and lack the skills needed to rebuild their lives and foster healthy connections. Recognizing this gap, Carrfour integrated PAIRS training, delivered by the Purpose Built Families Foundation, into their support services.
The PAIRS training, which stands for Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills, equips participants with essential tools for emotional literacy, communication, and conflict resolution. These skills are crucial for fostering a supportive and cohesive community, which is at the heart of Carrfour’s philosophy.
Stephanie Berman, President and CEO of Carrfour Supportive Housing, shared her thoughts on the partnership: “Integrating PAIRS training into our support services has been transformative for both our staff and residents. The skills they’ve learned have significantly improved our community’s ability to connect, communicate, and support one another. We are incredibly grateful to the Purpose Built Families Foundation and the Unlikely Collaborators Foundation for making this possible.”
For the staff, PAIRS training provided valuable insights into the emotional and relational dynamics that residents often struggle with. This understanding allowed them to offer more empathetic and effective support. Staff members learned techniques for active listening, empathy, and constructive feedback, which enhanced their ability to connect with residents and support them through their transitions.
One of the staff members, Maria, shared her experience: “Before the PAIRS training, I often felt ill-equipped to handle the complex emotional needs of our residents. The training gave me the tools to really listen and respond in ways that build trust and understanding. It has transformed the way I interact with residents and has made a significant difference in their progress.”
For residents, PAIRS training was a lifeline that helped them rebuild their lives from the inside out. The sessions provided a safe space for them to explore their emotions, understand their past behaviors, and learn new ways to connect with others. The impact of this training was profound.
Rachel Marmor, a licensed mental health professional and Purpose Built Families Foundation’s training director, emphasized the importance of these skills: “The PAIRS training offers practical, research-based tools that are essential for building healthy relationships. Our partnership with Carrfour has allowed us to reach individuals who are rebuilding their lives, providing them with the skills they need to create stable and supportive relationships. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive changes in both staff and residents.”
Take the story of James, a resident who had spent years on the streets before finding a home with Carrfour. James struggled with anger and distrust, which made it difficult for him to build relationships. Through PAIRS training, he learned to understand his emotions and communicate more effectively. “PAIRS taught me how to deal with my anger and express myself in a way that others can understand,” James said. “It helped me rebuild my relationship with my family and make new friends here at Carrfour. I feel like a new person.”
Another resident, Lisa, a single mother, found that PAIRS training helped her develop better parenting skills. The techniques she learned for emotional regulation and communication allowed her to connect more deeply with her children, creating a more stable and loving home environment. “PAIRS has been a game-changer for my family. My kids and I are closer than ever, and I feel more confident in my ability to support them,” Lisa shared.
The success stories of residents like James and Lisa are a testament to the transformative power of PAIRS training. By addressing the emotional and relational needs of both staff and residents, Carrfour has created a more supportive and resilient community. The training has not only helped individuals heal and grow but has also strengthened the overall fabric of the supportive housing program.
The Unlikely Collaborators Foundation, which made this partnership possible, is dedicated to supporting innovative solutions that bridge gaps in society and promote collaboration among diverse groups. With a focus on fostering creativity, empathy, and connection, the foundation funds initiatives that address complex social issues through unconventional and creative means. Their support for the PAIRS training at Carrfour is a reflection of their commitment to empowering communities and fostering meaningful change.
The partnership between Carrfour Supportive Housing and the Purpose Built Families Foundation has been instrumental in helping the supportive housing program achieve success. Through PAIRS training, both staff and residents have gained invaluable skills that have enhanced their relationships and contributed to a more harmonious and supportive community. As Carrfour continues its mission to end homelessness, the lessons learned from PAIRS will remain a vital part of their approach, ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to build a brighter future.
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