Comprehensive Housing Assistance Services Description

At ME Living and COCAS, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive housing assistance services to individuals and families in need of stable, safe, and affordable housing. Our housing assistance programs are designed to support those facing homelessness, domestic violence, financial hardship, or reentry challenges. Through personalized support and a range of housing options, we help individuals regain their independence and stability.

1. Emergency Housing

• We offer immediate emergency housing for individuals and families in crisis, including those fleeing domestic violence or homelessness.

• Our emergency shelters provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where individuals can focus on stabilizing their situation and begin planning for long-term solutions.

• 24/7 access to crisis housing ensures that individuals have a safe place to go during moments of critical need.

2. Transitional Housing

• For individuals and families in need of longer-term housing support, our transitional housing programs offer stable living environments while residents work toward permanent housing.

• Transitional housing includes:

  • Sober living homes for individuals recovering from substance abuse.

  • Domestic violence shelters for survivors seeking refuge and safety.

  • Reentry housing for individuals recently released from incarceration.

• Residents in transitional housing receive case management and access to resources to help them rebuild their lives, including financial planning, job placement, and counseling services.

3. Permanent Supportive Housing

• For individuals with long-term housing needs, such as those with disabilities or chronic health issues, we offer permanent supportive housing options.

• Our program combines affordable housing with supportive services to help individuals maintain stable, independent living.

• Services include mental health support, medical care, and ongoing case management to ensure individuals receive the necessary assistance to live independently.

4. Housing Vouchers and Financial Assistance

• We assist individuals in applying for various housing vouchers and rental assistance programs, including:

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Providing subsidies to help low-income individuals and families afford housing in the private market.

  • HUD Programs: Assisting eligible individuals and families in securing safe, affordable housing through federal programs.

  • Emergency Rental Assistance: Financial assistance for individuals facing eviction or unable to pay rent due to a crisis.

  • Georgia Victim Compensation Program (GAVCP): Covering housing-related expenses for victims of crime, including rent, utilities, and relocation costs.

• Our team helps clients complete applications, gather necessary documentation, and navigate the eligibility requirements for these programs.

5. Rapid Re-Housing Programs

• Our Rapid Re-Housing Program provides short-term financial assistance and services to quickly place individuals and families in permanent housing.

• This program offers:

  • Rental assistance to cover the initial months of rent.

  • Security deposits and utility payments to help clients move into new housing without financial strain.

  • Housing search and placement support to identify safe and affordable housing options in the community.

• Case managers work with individuals to develop a long-term housing stability plan, including assistance with finding employment and financial management.

6. Homelessness Prevention

• We offer homelessness prevention services for individuals and families at risk of losing their housing. These services aim to prevent eviction and ensure housing stability.

• Our team works with clients to negotiate with landlords, arrange payment plans, and apply for emergency rental assistance.

• Legal assistance is available for those facing eviction, helping them understand their rights as tenants and exploring options to avoid displacement.

7. Domestic Violence Housing Assistance

• Survivors of domestic violence are provided with confidential housing and support to help them escape abusive situations and start fresh.

• Our domestic violence housing services include:

  • Emergency shelters that offer immediate safety and security.

  • Transitional housing to provide longer-term support while survivors work on rebuilding their lives.

  • Legal assistance for filing protective orders, custody arrangements, and securing safe housing.

  • Rental and relocation assistance to help survivors move into new housing and regain their independence.

• We work closely with local domestic violence shelters and victim advocacy organizations to ensure survivors have access to all necessary resources.

8. Reentry Housing for Recently Released Individuals

• We provide reentry housing services for individuals transitioning from incarceration, offering a supportive environment to help them reintegrate into society.

• Our reentry housing program includes:

  • Temporary and transitional housing to provide stability while individuals seek employment and rebuild their lives.

  • Access to job training, employment services, and counseling to support successful reentry.

  • Legal assistance for individuals seeking to address probation or parole requirements, expungement, or other reentry-related legal issues.

• The program is designed to reduce recidivism by providing individuals with the housing and resources they need to succeed.

9. Support Services

• In addition to housing, we offer a range of support services to help individuals achieve long-term housing stability:

  • Case Management: Each client works with a dedicated case manager who provides personalized support, connects them to resources, and helps them develop a housing plan.

  • Financial Literacy and Budgeting: Workshops and one-on-one counseling are available to help individuals manage their finances, save for future housing, and create sustainable budgets.

  • Job Placement Services: We provide job search assistance, resume building, interview preparation, and access to employment opportunities to support individuals in securing stable income.

  • Mental Health and Counseling Services: Licensed therapists offer mental health support, including counseling for trauma, substance abuse recovery, and stress management.

10. Assistance for Families and Children

• Families with children receive specialized support to ensure both parents and children can achieve housing stability:

  • Childcare assistance is provided, including referrals to affordable daycare and preschool programs.

  • Children’s educational support ensures that school-aged children remain enrolled in school and receive any necessary tutoring or special services.

  • Parenting support is available to help families navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives and creating a stable home environment.

11. Partnerships with Local Agencies and Nonprofits

• We collaborate with local housing authorities, nonprofits, and community organizations to maximize the resources available to our clients.

• Partnerships with organizations such as HUD, domestic violence shelters, and reentry programs allow us to offer a wide range of services tailored to individual needs.

• We also work with churches, faith-based organizations, and volunteers to provide additional support such as moving assistance, furniture donations, and food resources.