More about this pilot program

The Need: Over the course of the last several years, we have worked with several of young adults who are currently homeless and/or at high risk of homelessness. Unfortunately, there is a lack of resources and availability for housing programs and shelters in the South Texas area, which leads to a very high demand to secure safe housing. The waitlists for affordable housing programs are often nine months or longer. Not only that, but the eligibility requirements are strict and often exclude the young adults that we serve, especially if they do not have the required documentation that many lack from their time in care.

Often, we receive requests for hotels and short-term housing help while they wait for their names to come up on permanent supportive housing and/or alternative housing waitlists. Rather than spending thousands of dollars on hotels and short-term solutions, we are piloting a new program to invest in a more cost-effective solution. We are renting an apartment unit where one of our young adults can live while they are on the waiting list for affordable housing. This will allow them the opportunity to have stability and continue working towards their goals instead of worrying each day about where they will lay their head at night.

Our Model:

• Use a scattered apartment model and residents will live in apartments throughout the region near schools, employment, transportation, and community resources.
• This arrangement allows young adults to practice necessary independent living skills and achieve self-sufficiency while still in a supportive environment.
• Housing stability provides normalcy and experiences similar to their non-foster peers.
• The program would primarily rely on studio or one-bedroom apartments for 6–9-month time periods.

Thank you to our supporters!