Funding will create 25 new housing units for survivors and families transitioning from emergency shelter to long-term stability
DENTON COUNTY, TEXAS — October 9, 2026 — Denton County Friends of the Family (DCFOF) is proud to announce that the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) has approved $8.2 million in funding through its HOME-ARP Non-Congregate Shelter (NCS) program for Phase 2 of the Denton County Family Justice Center.
The significant investment will support the development of 25 private, non-congregate shelter units designed to accommodate survivors and families with varying housing needs. Unlike traditional congregate shelter setting, these units will provide survivors of domestic violence and their families with safe, private, temporary housing as they work toward permanent housing and long-term independence.
“This is an incredible milestone for our organization, our community, and most importantly, the survivors and families we serve,” said Toni Johnson-Simpson, Executive Director of Denton County Friends of the Family. “Safe, affordable housing is one of the greatest barriers survivors face when leaving an abusive situation. These new units will help bridge the gap between emergency shelter and permanent housing, giving families the time, space, and support they need to rebuild their lives.”
The funding represents another major step forward for Expedition Hope, DCFOF’s initiative to bring the Denton County Family Justice Center to Life. The Family Justice Center will bring essential services, resources, and community partners together in one location, making it easier for survivors to access the support they need.
Phase 1 focuses on expanding emergency shelter capacity and creating spaces for comprehensive, coordinated services. Phase 2 will build on that foundation by adding much-needed temporary housing options for survivors and their families who need additional time and support before transitioning to permanent housing.
Together, these phases will strengthen the continuum of care available to survivors, from immediate safety and crisis intervention to housing stability and long-term independence.
Continuing the Work
While TDHCA funding approval marks an important milestone, important work remains. Over the coming months, DCFOF will work closely with TDHCA to complete remaining requirements, finalize funding agreements, and prepare for the next stages of development.
Meanwhile, work on Phase 1 will continue, along with efforts to secure the remaining funding needed to complete this portion of the Family Justice Center.
“Securing this funding required months of planning, collaboration, problem-solving, and persistence,” Johnson-Simpson said. “I am incredibly grateful to our Board of Directors, staff, community partners, supporters, and everyone who helped us reach this point. This truly took a team effort, and I am deeply grateful for the commitment and expertise that made this possible.”
For DCFOF, the investment represents more than new buildings or additional housing units. It represents more opportunities for survivors and their families to move beyond crisis and toward a safer, more stable future..
“Behind every funding decision, every building plan, and every milestone are individuals and families looking for safety, stability, and the opportunity to begin again,” Johnson-Simpson said. “Today, we celebrate an $8.2 million investment in that future. Tomorrow, we continue the work of making it a reality.”