Program Model
The Bridges to Housing program model calls for a three-part approach to meeting the needs of homeless families.
- permanent affordable housing, available to families for as long as it is needed
- intensive family services, designed to build on the strengths of family members and maximize success
- child services aimed at meeting the needs of the children
For more information on the program model, please click here for a summary of the program elements.
Permanent Affordable Housing -- Bridges to Housing families live in subsidized affordable housing. Families will be able to live in the housing permanently, but the hope is that families will no longer need a housing subsidy after an average of five years. Bridges to Housing will increase the availability of housing in the 4-county region that is designed to pair affordable housing with appropriate family centered services. Our goal is 300 units over 10 years.
Services — Bridges to Housing provides an average of $4,500 per year per family to supplement existing resources and support intensive case management and provide adults with improved employment opportunities and kids with school support. All family members have access to mental and physical health care, substance abuse treatment and other support systems. Some of these funds may be used to meet specific needs such as car repairs or a security deposit for an apartment. Services are expected to taper off after two years, but there will not be a strict time limit.
Services are offered in a uniform manner across all four counties. Families are served using a housing first model, with intensive case management. Family strengths are assessed early in the process, and services will be tailored to build on family strengths.
A common screening and assessment tool have been developed and adopted by the Regional Steering Committee. Recommendations for support and training of case managers have also been adopted.
Click here to see the screening tool developed and adopted by Bridges to Housing. Click here for the assessment tool. Also available for viewing are: family support principles, as well as the data assessment tool.
Bridges to Housing recently presented at the 2008 Oregon Coalition on Housing and Homelessness Conference. Download the presentation.
Child Services — Homelessness is traumatic for children. Therefore, case managers will have access to funds to meet specific needs of children, including child care.