DACKKS GROUP
News from DACKKs

We quietly celebrated an anniversary in October 2005. For the past five years The DACKKs Group has been working to make a difference in the lives of people who have become homeless and who have special needs. And as with each previous year 2005 was very successful.

Here are three highlights:

  • First, we completed the LINKs Project – our commitment to provide affordable housing for eight disabled individuals and adults with children. We did that with the final purchase of a two family home in Garfield. We exceeded our project commitment by housing nine adults and children in five units. Sadly, in October, one of our tenants lost a child in a tragic traffic accident. But with some support the mother and her other child are dealing with their loss and moving ahead with their lives. She credits having the stability of a permanent home with helping her and her remaining child cope with their loss.
  • Second, we received a grant from the state of New Jersey to complete some much needed renovations on several of our bathrooms and kitchens. The work is ongoing.
  • Third, we successfully met and actually exceeded the 2004-2005 challenge by the Domain Fund to raise $35,000.

    And here's the bigger picture:

  • In just five years of operations we have provided permanent homes to fifteen adults and children.
  • We own six housing units.
  • Five of our tenants live with disabilities.
  • All of our tenants pay rent.

    All work hard to be responsible, handling the monthly bills as best they can, meeting their financial responsibilities as best they can, coping with life while earning, on average, less than $15,000 a year. When the rent is late, just like any other renter, they pay late charges because we don't provide a handout. We provide a leg up. Our tenants pay 30% of their income to rent…whatever their income is.

    But as you know, 30% of an average income of $15,000 does not cover the expense of owning and maintaining property in Bergen County. So the DACKKs Group picks up the balance: we buy the properties and subsidize the rents with the generous financial support of people like you and with the help of foundations and government grants. You contribute to our work only after thoughtful consideration. We manage your contributions carefully to ensure that they go directly to those in need, not to high overhead and unnecessary expenses. We appreciate the support you have given us. Our greatest asset, the foundation of our organization is and will continue to be the people who so generously and in countless ways, both large and small, donate to our efforts -not only their time, skills and materials but also their financial support. These people are the DACKKs Group.

    Success begets success. The Domain Fund has offered another challenge to us: raise $35,000 by the end of September 2006 and it will be matched dollar for dollar. Once again, our efforts will be directed toward meeting –and exceeding- this challenge. Stay tuned throughout the year as we report on our success!

    As always, we appreciate your interest in our work because everyone deserves a safe, decent and affordable place to live.

    Our best wishes in the new year….

    Karen E. Amy
    President

    Feburary 2006