Short-Term Transitional Shelter Program

What is a Transitional Shelter?

A transitional shelter is a second-step shelter program following a stay at an emergency shelter. These programs offer increased length of stay for stabilization, and focus closer on goal-oriented case management to support long-term self-sufficiency.

Home of the Sparrow’s Transitional Shelter

Serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, the HOS Transitional Shelter provides secure living conditions in a dorm style environment and wraparound services that are designed to meet clients “where they are at” to help them move toward
a new beginning and a self-sufficient lifestyle. These services may include case management, employment specialist/services, referrals to community resources and mental health services, and more.

The main shared-living space includes nine dorm rooms with access to two communaln kitchens, shared bathrooms, a children’s play area and laundry facilities. There are four two-bedroom individual living units to accommodate mothers with adolescent-age boys or with special needs. Currently, the shelter can serve up to 31 individuals per night.

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Criteria for Program

Literally homeless women 18 years or older (single, pregnant, or with children up to age 18). What does “literally homeless” mean? Please click HERE for more information (PDF).
Must be referred from Coordinated Entry and be staying at an emergency shelter within McHenry County to be eligible for the program:
○ PADS McHenry: 815-759-7284
○ Turning Point (Domestic Violence shelter): 815-338-8081
Open to addressing mental health concerns and appropriate treatment.
Willing to be employed full-time by the tenth week in the program, or if receiving SSDI, part-time work.
No violent criminal charges (ex: assault, battery, etc.); other criminal history will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Open a savings account and be agreeable to deposit part of monthly income into it during the duration of the program.
Clients are expected to meet the Shelter Success Guidelines, which include participating in case management.

Range of Services

Case Management

Home of the Sparrow’s experienced Case Managers work with shelter residents and housing program clients to develop an Individual Plan. Areas of focus include employment, education, parenting, financial skills, housing, physical and mental health, and well-being. Regular case management involves support and guidance in achieving individual goals in each area. The process serves to empower women as they transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

Referrals

Community Resources in McHenry County offer an array of supportive services that strive to meet the needs of area residents. Home of the Sparrow Case Managers are skilled at appropriate referral and utilization of those resources to supplement the support offered by the agency.

Employment Specialist

Transitional Shelter clients have access to an employment specialist who can connect them to employers in the area, assist with resume creation/review, interview practice, and employment skills. The employment specialist can also assist clients in pursuing educational opportunities.

Financial Literacy Classes

Financial difficulties and limited resources associated with homelessness make maintaining good credit very difficult. Residents of HOS participate in Consumer Credit Counseling classes, learning to use credit responsibly and increase their credit score. They also attend financial classes focused on creating a savings plan, reducing expenses, addressing previous debt, and creating a budget, which are all essential to financial recovery and self-sufficiency.

Monthly Activities

A calendar of activities is planned for clients to express their creativity, learn new skills, and build community. Crafting, cooking, crocheting, games, and nature walks are just a few activities that are offered.

Advocacy

Navigating the world of social services can at times be difficult and frustrating. HOS staff assist residents and clients with connections to services and, when needed, act as a strong voice on their behalf.

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