Interfaith Hospitality Network
A Typical Day in IHN Worcester Area Program

Times are an approximate range, since there is sometimes a significant variation in travel times to/from the Day Center from each church..

6:35 - 7:00 a.m.: The van arrives to pick up the guests at the Host Site. The children are either brought to their bus stop, which is the Day Center, or directly to school depending on what time their school starts and how early the bus would arrive. Adults either go to work, school, or the IHN Day Center.

7:30 - 5:30 p.m.: At the Day Center, families work with the Family Advocate on finding housing, employment, or furthering their education. They make and keep appointments for medical, dental, DTA Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance, DSS Massachusetts Department of Social Services, WIC Women, Infants and Children, children's school, etc. (any and all agencies they may be dealing with). With the assistance of the Family Advocate, they go on job interviews and to view apartments. The Day Center is also a safe haven for families with children who are not yet in school.

All adults must :
1. Meet with the Family Advocate each week.
2. Save money (this can include paying off past due utility bills).
3. Conduct housing search and keep a detailed record of places applied to and apartments called
4. Show proof of job search, if applicable, and meet all of their goals each week, often with the assistance of the Family Advocate and Director).

2:00 - 4:00 p.m.: Parents meet children as they arrive at the Day Center from school. Children have a snack, do homework, and play. This is also shower time for children who do not have enough time to shower in the morning.

5:00 p.m.: Everyone must meet in the Day Center for transportation to the Host Site.

5:10 - 6:00 p.m.: Families arrive at Host Site.

Families will spend the rest of the evening at the Host Site, sharing dinner with volunteers and relaxing. Most Host Sites will spend an hor or so before bedtime doing crafts amd playing with the children. Bedtime is usually early since the van arrives early the next morning.