The Homeless Need More than Just a Pillow, They Need a Pillar: An Evaluation of a Transitional Housing Program

Abstract

Current programs serving the homeless population use the systems approach, focusing on the person-in-the situation. These programs, which are known as transitional housing programs, seek to empower individuals through comprehensive services, such as education, job development, leadership skills, resources, and referrals. This study evaluated the comprehensive services offered at a transitional housing program through the eyes of former residents. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 10 successful participants of the program. Analysis of the interview data suggested that the formal and informal services offered at Estival Place empowered the participants by offering life skills classes, resources and referrals, and counseling. Implications for social work practice are discussed.

Social Service Barriers Experienced by Low-Income Extended-Stay Hotel Residents

“…Enhancement of budgeting, job training, leadership, and network-building skills have been effective in transitioning people from homelessness (Dworsky & Courtney, 2007;Teater, 2009;Washington, 2002). Providing encouragement to clients working toward housing goals is also helpful (Thompson et al, 2004).…”

Housing first, neighborhood second? : the role of housing and neighborhood characteristics on residential stability in two housing first projects.

“…From this awareness, new models to promote transitions to stable housing began to surpass the emergency shelter model (Culhane and Metraux 2008). Transitional programs pair shelter with supportive services needed to empower homeless individuals to live independent lives (Washington 2002). This model, also known as linear residential treatment or continuum of care, generally provides a step-by-step sequence of housing placement and services to allow an individual to develop the ability to maintain independent housing (Tsemberis 1999(Tsemberis , 2000.…”

“…Services may target areas of need for homeless individuals, including job training, case management, substance abuse treatment, and mental healthcare (Washington 2002).…”

“…According to Lederman (1993) (Washington 2002). Through this Act, emergency shelters were intended to become a point of entry into a more specialized shelter system that could address a multitude of needs for homeless individuals, including disability, mental illness, domestic abuse, and addiction recovery (Hoch 2000).…”

“…It has been stated that the intent of transitional programs is to empower homeless individuals (Sowers et al 2002, Washington 2002). However, the actual level of empowerment created through such a program is debatable, especially in terms of consumer choice.…”