Guide to Housing Stabilization Services
As one of Pennsylvania's leading community care management providers, ECCM is committed to addressing the pressing issue of housing instability among individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral challenges.
Recognizing this community's unique needs, we deliver solutions through specialized housing stabilization services, each designed to foster growth and improve quality of life.
Understanding the Challenges
Individuals with IDD or behavioral issues face a unique set of challenges that require specialized support and services. These complex needs often include tailored healthcare, educational support, and daily living assistance, which are important for fostering independence. However, accessing these services can be difficult — particularly when compounded by housing instability.
Barriers to stable housing are a significant hurdle for this community. Discrimination in the housing market, a lack of affordable housing options, and insufficient support systems are common obstacles that prevent individuals from securing (and maintaining) a stable living environment. These barriers not only limit access to safe, suitable housing but also exacerbate the challenges faced by those with IDD.
Of course, the impact of housing instability extends far beyond the immediate concern of finding a place to live. Unstable housing situations severely affect mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, or depression.
Frequent moves or the threat of eviction can further disrupt access to healthcare and other essential services. In other words, a lack of stable housing greatly diminishes the quality of life, so addressing these challenges through comprehensive support and targeted interventions is vital.
ECCM's Approach to Housing Stabilization Services
One of our core missions is to help individuals in challenging situations through a targeted housing stability program.
Two of ECCM’s key housing stabilization services are the Shelter Plus Care Program and the Homeless Persons Behavioral Health Program, both designed to address the multifaceted needs of homeless individuals with disabilities.
Shelter Plus Care Program
Shelter Plus Care, funded by the Housing and Urban Development (HUD), is a housing stabilization program that offers rental assistance and supportive services to homeless individuals.
This initiative provides a stable roof over participants' heads along with required involvement in treatment programs focused on mental health and substance abuse. By mandating these treatments, the program aims to empower individuals to increase their income and achieve long-term stability.
Case managers work closely with individuals to ensure they are engaged in the necessary treatment programs and are on a path to improving their overall quality of life. To qualify, the head of the household must have experienced homelessness for a full year, either continuously or in multiple episodes.
Homeless Persons Behavioral Health Program
The Homeless Persons Behavioral Health Program focuses on the mental health needs of homeless individuals in Northwestern Pennsylvania. It offers comprehensive behavioral health services, including mental health screening and assessment, representative payee services, and High-Fidelity Wraparound (HFW).
ECCM's team diligently connects these individuals with the mental health treatment, rehabilitation, and resources they need to thrive. By integrating these services with housing support, our care managers create a holistic approach that addresses both immediate and long-term needs.
Additional Support for Adolescents and High-Risk Adults
ECCM strives to create a nurturing environment that empowers all individuals to build a stable, fulfilling future — no matter one’s age or ability.
Care Management for Adolescents
ECCM offers specialized care management for children and adolescents through the Health Choices program. This initiative involves a team of health professionals — including social workers, nurses, and psychologists — who collaborate with families and providers to plan effective behavioral health treatment. The program encompasses a range of services, including:
- Residential Treatment Facility (RTF): A temporary, 90-day program for severe emotional and behavioral disorders.
- Community Rehabilitative Residence (CRR) Host Home/Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC): Intensive out-of-home treatment with trained families.
- Partial Hospitalization Services (PHP) and Acute Partial Hospitalization (APHP): Structured day programs offering therapeutic and educational support.
- Family-Based Mental Health (FBMH): A family-oriented service providing therapy and crisis intervention.
- Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS): In-home or community-based mental health services.
Each service within the program focuses on tailored support, crucial for addressing the complex needs of adolescents and preventing future housing instability.
High-Risk Adult Care Management
ECCM also provides care management for high-risk adults. In this case, the concentration is on individuals identified as having complex needs or at risk of discontinuing care. The program includes:
- Mobile Psychiatric Rehabilitation (MPR): Skills development and environmental support for successful community integration.
- Mobile Medication Monitoring: Assistance with medication adherence and education.
- Assertive Community Treatment (ACT): Comprehensive, 24-hour treatment for mental health and substance abuse.
- Partial Hospitalization and Crisis Residential Unit (CRU): Alternatives to inpatient care, offering intensive support and stabilization.
No matter the circumstances, the goal is always to ensure that high-risk adults receive the necessary support to maintain stability and avoid frequent crises.
Success Stories
We stand by our mission to create meaningful change through housing stabilization services, providing hope and new opportunities for the future.
Sarah's Story
Sarah, a young adult facing the challenges of homelessness, entered ECCM's Shelter Plus Care Program. With rental assistance and participation in mental health treatment, Sarah was able to secure stable housing for the first time in years.
The consistent support from her case manager helped her maintain her home and access necessary healthcare services. Today, Sarah is housed and steadily employed at a job she thoroughly enjoys.
Dylan’s Journey
Mark was a high-risk adult with a history of substance abuse, and he was struggling to find his footing. Through ECCM's ACT program, he received complete support that addressed his housing and rehabilitation needs.
The program's multi-faceted approach — which included mental health services and life skills training — empowered Mark to overcome his addiction and regain control of his life.
"ECCM gave me the tools and support I needed to stand independently," Mark shares. "Having a stable place to call home has made all the difference."
How to Access ECCM's Housing Stabilization Services
Getting started with us is a straightforward process, designed to connect you with the support you need as quickly as possible!
1: Initial Contact
To begin your journey with ECCM, reach out to us through one of the following methods:
- Phone: Call 814-528-0601 to speak with a team member.
- Email: Send your questions to expert@eccm.org.
- Contact Form: Use the contact form available on our website to get in touch.
2: Eligibility Assessment
After your initial contact, our intake team will guide you through an eligibility assessment for housing stabilization services. This involves collecting the necessary documents to determine your qualifications.
Not to worry — our staff will assist you throughout this process to ensure it is seamless!
3: Service Coordination
Once eligibility is confirmed, you will be assigned a service coordinator. This coordinator will collaborate with you to create a customized plan that addresses your specific needs and connects you with the appropriate services.
4: Ongoing Support
ECCM is dedicated to providing ongoing support. We will continuously monitor your progress and adjust your support plan as necessary so that you receive optimal care!
Contact ECCM today to embark on your path to improved health and independence. We are here to assist you every step of the way!
ECCM: Building Better Futures for All
Securing a safe, permanent home is the first step towards a secure future; it provides a foundation upon which individuals can build their lives, pursue education or employment, and improve their overall well-being.
At ECCM, we are committed to providing the housing stabilization services necessary to help these individuals build a brighter future. We invite you to reach out to us to learn more about our programs and how we can assist you or your loved ones!