Local Organization Helps Families In Poverty Start Fresh

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- One Minneapolis organization provides free meals to families in need -- and a chance to start over.

"This is not easy, being homeless," said Artis Stevenson.

Times have been tough for Artis and his wife, Lisa. Add five children, all girls, to the mix, and you have the Stevenson family's reality.

However, their turning point came four months ago when the organization, Families Moving Forward, opened their doors.

The organization gives six families with children shelter and the chance to get back on their feet.

"We come use the resources, like the computers, look for jobs, housing," said Lisa.

Like any family, they do chores, laundry, have family meetings and maybe most important-their kids can be kids.

Although they don't have jobs yet, Lisa and Artis just learned they will be given housing next month. It's a lesson that's taught them -- despite contrary belief -- that you can trust a stranger.

"We don't know them and they don't know us," said Lisa. "It's pretty much just taking a chance."

Families Moving Forward works in partnership with The Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation. Year round, they are looking for donations.