HomeStart Supportive Housing Program
HomeStart offers community-based housing and supportive services for families as they move toward a new beginning and independent living for families leaving either of our shelters by providing:
- Assistance with securing rent-subsidized housing and all the living essentials so that they can begin to develop rent stability.
- Intensive services to develop and achieve individualized and measurable goals for gradually building capacity for independent, self-reliant living.
- Emphasis on employment stability, financial literacy, parenting, interpersonal relationships and the full spectrum of children’s services.
See the HomeStart program in action by checking us out on YouTube.
While the Family Home was under construction, HomeStart was expanded to serve more families in 2006-2007. In 2007, HomeStart built partnerships with area landlords to provide affordable, independent housing to families making the transition into stable, permanent housing. We served a record 24 families (84 parents and children) with 16,391 bed nights of supportive housing. In 2007,
- 90% of HomeStart graduates secured permanent housing.
- 96% of graduates stayed in housing of their choice for at least 8 to 36 months, resulting in less disruption of schools and support networks.
- 92% of graduates paid rent on time each month and maintained positive landlord relations, creating the rental history essential for long-term housing stability.
- 100% of clients learned to create a budget within 3 months of entering the program and working with our Financial Educators.
- 83% of clients opened escrow accounts by the third month of program participation.
- 100% of high school children were enrolled in school, attended regularly, and received tutoring assistance as needed.
- 100% of infants and toddlers participated in high-quality early childhood programming due to individualized support by Doorways’ Children’s Services Coordinator.
- 100% of HomeStart children had the opportunity to attend YMCA summer camps at a 90% reduced fee.
Currently HomeStart is continuing to expand its services, serving a total of 21 families: 25 adults and 44 children this winter. Learn how you can support families in need today by volunteering or donating.