Home First

Through our work focused on housing individuals and families, we have become increasingly aware of the vast challenges faced by an expanding homeless population, particularly those persons who struggle with serious mental illness.

Home First assists homeless persons diagnosed with mental illness or co-occurring disorders in finding, obtaining, and sustaining permanent housing. The program is based on a well-documented, successful Housing First approach using harm reduction strategies – ''whatever it takes!''

Housing Works has engaged the seasoned leadership and experience of Mollie Lowery (Founder and prior Director of Lamp Community) who has identified ways we could assist this population in obtaining and sustaining housing.

Program components include:

• Outreach and engagement of homeless persons

• Identification of affordable housing units that are accessible through master lease, Section 8 or other rent subsidy programs

• Assistance in obtaining tenancy approval

• Provision of comprehensive support services

• Provision of voluntary opportunities that will build a sense of community for participants.
  

Creating Healthy Community