Construction of the new Family Promise location on Peabody Street in Derry. Courtesy photo/Merrimack County Savings Bank

NASHUA – Family Promise of Southern New Hampshire recently received $10,600 from Merrimack County Savings Bank to assist in financing the expansion of its Transitional Housing Program.

“With homelessness on the rise, it’s important that we give back to local organizations on the front lines,” said bank President Linda Lorden. “Family Promise has helped families transform their lives and future.”

The expansion project will include a second location at 12 Peabody St. in Derry, which will accommodate up to nine families. Construction is expected to be completed by early-2025.

In addition to housing, families will receive counseling, education and the support they need to escape homelessness.

“This second location allows us to provide a warm safe home to more families experiencing homelessness throughout Western Rockingham County,” said Pamela Wellman, executive director of Family Promise. “We’re grateful to The Merrimack and all of the donors supporting our mission.”

Family Promise has been serving families in Western Rockingham County since its affiliate program closed in 2018.

The current Family Promise location at 3 Crown St. opened in February 2021 and provides transitional housing for up to 24 families.

Founded in 2000, Family Promise provides services to more than 900 individuals every 18 months. In addition, 100 percent of the organization’s parents are employed and 86 percent of families do not fall back into homelessness.