Rapid Rehousing Program
Home of the Sparrow is able to assist families who have experienced a life event that has put them in financial jeopardy. These families are ready to bypass the transitional shelter services and, with assistance, enter directly into housing. Rental assistance provides the client with financial resources to enter new housing within the community, such as the first month’s rent and security deposits.
Home of the Sparrow’s supportive case management services are provided for up to 12 months after the client enters housing to help with maintaining stability. Aftercare services are also provided as needed. The goal of this program is to rehouse families and individuals into permanent housing within 30 days of their program entry and to maintain the permanent housing at both a 6 month and 12 month check-in.
Criteria for Program
- Individuals age 18 or older (singles or families) who are homeless, imminently homeless, or fleeing domestic violence
- Criminal history will be evaluated on an individual basis
- Must locate housing in McHenry County
- Applicants are encouraged to have employment income or other reliable income sources that demonstrate the ability to afford fair market rent and utilities that are aligned with their housing needs.
- If the applicant does not have a reliable income source, they are encouraged to work and/or develop job skills to their highest ability and need.
Range of Services
- Program length is up to 12 months.
- Once accepted into the program, case managers will support the client in their search for community rental housing.
- Short-term financial assistance that may include payment of the security deposit and first month’s rent. Additional months of rental assistance are determined by funding availability, program requirements, and client needs.
- Participants will receive a case manager and will meet regularly for case management. The primary focus of which will be budgeting and financial management in order to keep the participant on track with monthly lease payments.
- Case management services offered include assistance with community resources, budgeting, parenting, health, employment, and education.
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