The Marblehead Housing Authority has launched Future Forward, a self-sufficiency program designed to help residents of public housing set and achieve their personal, educational and career goals.
Future Forward offers participants individualized coaching, resource navigation and the opportunity to build financial stability.
The Marblehead and Salem Housing authorities used a $100,000 state grant to hire Sandy Reiniger as the Future Forward coordinator. So far, more than 20 MHA residents have expressed interest in the program.
“Future Forward gives our residents the support, tools and resources they need to make real progress toward their goals,” Reiniger said. “Whether that’s going back to school, starting a new job or improving financial security, we want to help our residents take meaningful steps forward.”
Reiniger will meet with residents one-on-one every few months. The program lasts three years, with the possibility of a two-year extension.
“I’m their resource person, their cheerleader,” Reiniger said. “I give positive feedback and brainstorm with them to break down barriers.”
The work can sometimes involve family goals, too.
“A lot of moms have a child with special needs, which takes a lot of their time. There may be resources that can help them,” she said.
Another key part of the program involves financial savings. As public housing residents earn more money, their rent automatically increases. With Future Forward, the MHA will invest the additional rent money in escrow so it can earn interest.
“If you have a signed contract, the MHA can start a savings account in your name,” Reiniger explained. “Residents can then use that money to potentially get themselves out of debt or for car repairs … different things that have haunted them.”
MHA Executive Director Cathy Hoog is a big fan of Future Forward, saying it’s “about more than short-term assistance — it’s about long-term empowerment. When residents thrive, our entire community benefits. We are excited to see how this program will support Marblehead families in building brighter, more sustainable futures.”
To learn more about Future Forward, contact Reiniger at sreiniger@salemha.org.
