Supportive Services

CSH provides Service Coordination, an essential component of all our housing programs, at our apartment communities and in our rental assistance programs to guide our participants in accessing appropriate services that will ensure housing stability, help them maintain or increase their income, and improve their quality of life. CSH encourages participants to receive as much assistance as possible during this time of transition from homelessness to obtaining and retaining permanent housing. While the program does not require acceptance of services, CSH recommends that each participant utilize relevant support networks.

The first step is to get our participants permanently and safely housed. Upon referral, Housing & Services Coordinators provide support to participants in navigating the leasing process, managing landlord/tenant relations, and troubleshooting when housing issues may arise.

Once housed, coordinators invite participants to complete an Individual Self-Sufficiency Assessment for wellness and social needs, conduct eligibility assessments for benefits, and design a menu of relevant services to recommend. Then the coordinators help participants identify and access services, provide guidance in selecting appropriate services, conduct regular home visits and/or monthly meetings, arrange educational classes, provide referrals, and assist with the application process for mainstream benefits and services such as mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, educational opportunities, and job training programs.

Coordinators utilize the Mecklenburg County Resource Guide, an up-to-date and interactive resource directory for Food & Clothing, Transportation, Mental and Behavioral Health, Medical, Case Management, Youth programs, and other services.

Why Supportive Services?

Housing First in general and services coordination in particular advances a compassionate and fiscally responsible intervention that benefits not only the health, welfare, and safety of the individuals served but the entire community. When people experiencing homelessness get permanently housed and receive supportive services they are highly likely to stay housed and can therefore focus on their physical, mental, and emotional needs. Studies reveal that housing stability improves a person’s health and social status and reduces utilization of hospitals, jails, and emergency services at public expense.