There were several causes of celebration for the open house including meeting the new Social Service Coordinator, Amy Owens, who joined the Texoma Council of Governments Public Housing Program in May. Ms. Owens, who lives in Paris, Texas, but has roots in Fannin County, comes to the position with a Bachelors Degree in Behavioral Science.
Excited to make a fresh start staff eagerly set about remodeling the facility. From coordinating cornice boards and newly upholstered chairs to color enriching classrooms and a one of a kind mural painted by local artist Lisa Avila, the transformation exceeded all expectations.
Lastly, the celebration culminated with the recognition of the amazing success of the partnership between Texoma Housing Partners and the Fannin County Literacy Council Helping Our People Excel (HOPE), GED program. The only open-entry open-exit GED Program available in Fannin County, the HOPE GED program has seen over 60 graduates with over 230 contact hours a month and growing.
Marsha Lindsey, President of the Literacy Council stated, “We are thrilled with the results of the collaborative efforts of the Literacy Council, community agencies and citizens. The flexible GED class schedule has proven to be the key to removing an educational barrier which has historically prevented so many people from achieving their GED certification.”
Allison Cardile, Director of Texoma Housing Partners enthusiastically agreed, “We are so excited to be a part of the effort of improving literacy not only for the residents of Public Housing but Fannin County as well.”
For those individuals interested in achieving their GED certification, contact Amy Owens at the Bonham Housing Authority at 903-583-1264.
