Network Connect partners with House of David to expand services in downtown Milford

Community Well-Being Ambassador program to begin Feb. 17 at Milford nonprofit

Pictured left to right are Pastor David Shockey, House of David Executive Director; Cierra Hall-Hipkins, Network Connect Executive Director; and Mrs. Tamika Shockley, House of David Executive Board Member. (Photo courtesy of Network Connect.)

A new partnership between Network Connect and the House of David will expand community well-being services in downtown Milford beginning Feb. 17.

Network Connect, a Delaware-based nonprofit, announced it will embed Community Well-Being Ambassadors at the House of David multiple days each week as part of its Community Well-Being Ambassador (CWA) Initiative. The ambassadors are trained to connect individuals and families with wellness resources, economic support services and coordinated care.

The House of David, a longstanding Milford nonprofit, provides stabilization support and connects residents to services such as transportation assistance, employment resources and other essential needs.

“At Network Connect, we invest in communities where strong culture, trusted relationships, and real impact are already taking root,.” said Cierra Hall-Hipkins, Executive Director of Network Connect. “This host site partnership allows us to deepen our presence., by embedding Community Well-Being Ambassadors alongside the House of David we are building capacity for the trusted work already happening in Downtown Milford while expanding access to wellness-focused, preventative support.”

Network Connect launched its Community Well-Being Ambassador program in 2022 and reports that more than 1,500 individuals across Kent and Sussex counties have received support through partnerships with host sites including Delaware State University, Restoration Church of Seaford, Cornerstone Community Center and the Milford Food Bank.

The House of David now becomes the latest host site in that network, bringing the initiative into downtown Milford.

“The House of David has always believed in serving the whole person with dignity, compassion, and action,” said House of David leadership. “Partnering with Network Connect enhances our capacity to meet community needs proactively and holistically while staying rooted in the values that guide our work.”

According to organizers, the partnership is designed to increase access to preventative services and strengthen coordination among local support organizations.

The House of David is a Milford-based nonprofit focused on providing resources and support to individuals and families in need.