THOMAS HOUSE (7) - 2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

a Case Manager to identify core issues that led to homelessness, create individualized care plans, and set achievable goals. Thomas House places special emphasis on helping our young residents succeed in school and build self- esteem through our Children's Program. We also subsidize the cost of childcare for parents who are working or seeking employment. At our Workforce Development Center, residents address barriers to employment, including lack of job skills, education, or work history. Beyond this support, Thomas House also provides counseling, life skills development, and resource assistance to help remove common barriers to attaining self- sufficiency. Once a family is able to sustain itself, Thomas House helps them obtain permanent housing by providing guidance and financial assistance with the first month's rent or security deposit. All former residents can continue to receive Thomas House services, decreasing the likelihood of their returning to homelessness. As a result of their participation in our program, we expect the following outcomes for our families: • 90% of adults will attain an increased level of employment. • 90% of families will obtain permanent housing. • 80% of families will remain self- sufficient, as evidenced by staying in permanent housing for one year after graduation from Thomas House. • 90% of families will save the equivalent of 2 months' rent /mortgage within 24 months. Program Impact The goal of Thomas House is to help families work toward self- sufficiency and prevent their return to homelessness, and we maintain a commitment to excellence across our service lines. Our core programs have surpassed expectations for government- sponsored housing programs in helping residents achieve these goals. Last year, 81% of adult residents attained full -time employment, and 89% obtained permanent housing! These remarkable results ranked us as the most successful transitional shelter in Orange County in HUD's latest Annual Performance Report. As the only shelter in Garden Grove, Thomas House has an established presence in the city, and relationships with city departments and other community organizations. We increase our impact by working with many local partners, including Orange County shelters, Garden Grove stakeholders, and nonprofit service providers. We know that the services we provide have a tremendous impact on the lives of families in need. One such example is that of Lily, who came to Thomas House over 20 years ago. At age 22, Lily was struggling to overcome substance abuse and give her four - year -old son a chance for success. When she first heard about Thomas House, she knew our program would give her the tools she needed to become truly independent. Today, Lily is in her mid - forties, working towards her life -long dream of earning a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology, and she still credits Thomas House with giving her a solid foundation to rebuild her life. She recently contacted us inquiring about our internship program, through which she can fulfill a class requirement, reconnect with Thomas House, and help those experiencing the same challenges that she overcame herself. The entire Thomas House team is thrilled to be able to help Lily with her career goals once again!