We use a modified Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team approach to provide a range of services to persons who are homeless in the City of Columbia.  Our team consists of an outreach worker, a case manager, a licensed therapist, an employment specialist and a certified health educator. Medical care is provided by a departmental clinic which addresses primary care issues.  By using the skills of each team member and our partnering clinic, we provide a comprehensive and cost effective approach. Emergency services are provided 24/7 to residents of our units.

This is the only Housing First program in Columbia, South Carolina.  Through a partnership with the Columbia Housing Authority, we lease 25 one bedroom apartments in Columbia for program participants.

Assessing Eligibility

Potential clients must meet HUD's definition of chronically homeless.  This means the person must be unaccompanied, disabled and living in a shelter or a place not meant for human habitation.  Homelessness must be for a period of 1 year or there must be 4 separate occurrences of homelessness in the last 3 years.  

To receive case management and housing placement, a person must also not be eligible for other housing services. As accessing services is often a barrier to housing, we work with persons we identify as eligible for other housing to assist them in accessing those services. Persons who receive housing services through this program and who have income pay 30% of their income toward rent and utilities.

Services Provided:

• Outreach and linkage services
• Assessment
• Housing Placement
• Individual Service Plans
• Case Management
• Mental Health Counseling
• Substance Abuse Counseling
• Life Skills
• Budgeting
• Benefits Navigation
• Referrals 
• Transportation Assistance