Options for Independence’s Supportive Housing Program (SHP) is a HUD funded program that will assist people who are homeless and who have a documented disability to increase their independence, obtain permanent housing and achieve long-term stability.

1. The person must meet HUD’s homeless definition,

2. The head of household must have a documented disability according to HUD’s guidelines, and

3. The person must be committed to designing their own goals and planning for long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

Program participants in the SHP will be assigned a Housing Advocate who will work with the individual/family to design an Independent Living Plan (ILP). This will assist the consumer to identify realistic goals which meet their individual needs. While goals are individualized, the long-term goal for all participants will be to maintain long-term, stable housing.

The Housing Advocate will meet with the consumer on a weekly basis for the first six months and then every two weeks thereafter to complete the first year of enrollment, provided that the consumer is making progress on their individual goals. In year two and three, the Housing Advocate will meet with the consumer at least once per month, more if required.

The consumer will be given support and assistance to ensure long-term stability related to sustaining permanent housing, maintaining appropriate financial resources and keeping optimal health.

Accessing mainstream resources will be critical to the participant’s success in Options for Independence’s SHP. Without adequate resources, it can be assumed that the participants will not find long-term self-sufficiency even with Options for Independence paying their rent. With this being said, it is Options for Independence’s intent to assist consumers with applications for other assistance programs that they are eligible for. Additionally, Options for Independence will refer consumers to various employment services so that their skills are increased and employment is obtained. Both enrollment in mainstream resources and job attainment will ensure long-term self-sufficiency.

The program has ten housing vouchers for people willing to commit to attaining long-term goals. The individual/head of household must be a person with a disability. Participants who enroll can remain in the program for a total of three years; however it is Options for Independence’s goal to work with the individual/families to get them into programs and services to maintain their own housing stability within eighteen months.

If you have any questions regarding this program please feel free to contact Albert Townsend at 315-255-3447 ext. 313 or e-mail him at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .