CITA Rescue Mission has a 50-year history of providing refuge and recovery for Brevard County, Florida's homeless men. I visited their facility several times - on Route 1 in Melbourne when helping my daughter's boyfriend at the time. He relied on their housing and programs to get his feet back on the ground.
CITA has targeted the homeless women and children of Brevard in response to the rising numbers in need. Roughly 85% of homeless families in Florida involve moms with a bit more than half of the children being under five years old.
There has been a 43% increase in female homelessness in the last year. Affordable housing is scant and the women struggle with interfering factors such as mental illness, addiction, or domestic violence.
More than 150 women contacted CITA last year seeking resources. They weren't meeting admission criteria at other local shelters. Many women had children and they needed to provide shelter and safety.
Offering healing and hope to the addicted, homeless, and forgotten in Brevard County for more than 50 years. -- CITA
After three years, CITA's efforts in Melbourne have resulted in renewed hope for the homeless women and children in Brevard.
Helen's House is a 10,000-square-foot, $3 Million facility designed to assist women in need. Plans for two additional faith-based facilities are in the foundation stage. The first phase can accommodate 36 women and children.
Upon completion of all three phases, over 100 women will be sheltered through CITA.
Buddy Morrow, executive director and president of CITA Rescue Mission, says they are hoping to bridge a gap for those who need help and support.
Morrow said they anticipate opening Helen's House by June 1 and already have a waiting list of applicants. They are currently addressing the finishing touches and await finalized paperwork.
Phase 2 building construction is slated within 18 months.
The facility will offer a minimum year-long program, with education opportunities, training, and resources for women.
8 mother and child rooms with full bathrooms attached
Professional kitchen with walk-in cooler and freezer
Comfortable common area dining room
Children's indoor and outdoor play areas
Laundry facilities
Covered patio overlooking outdoor play area for children
Support resources and services are built into Helen's House. They offer:
Christian Counseling
Assistance with healthcare and legal needs
Mentoring and Life Skills training
Education and training opportunities
Career assessment and job placement
Child Care Services
Tutoring
CITA Rescue Mission receives no state or federal funding. Contact them directly if you need assistance or would like to offer to help their cause. CITA, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1969. Contributions to CITA are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.
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