H.O.U.S.E.

Helping Others Until Self Empowered (H.O.U.S.E.)
Emergency Assistance Family Shelter Program

The H.O.U.S.E Program is funded by the Department of Housing and Community Development (D.H.C.D.).

H.O.U.S.E. is a short-term emergency assistance program for families located within the Taunton, Attleboro, Fall River, and New Bedford areas. Families are  identified and referred to Catholic Charities by D.H.C.D. The H.O.U.S.E program operates within the framework of Housing First Model. The main focus of the H.O.U.S.E. Program is to help families achieve successful placement into stable housing. This is accomplished by providing families with case management services while in shelter, as well as for two full years following shelter exit.  

Upon entry into the program, families will undergo an initial intake to determine their current level of income and benefits.  In the event the family has no income, Catholic Charities provides food, clothing, and transportation assistance until the family’s income is increased and benefits are obtained.  After meeting the immediate needs of the families, our Housing Advocates assist shelter participants in accessing Home Base funds that can be used for rental assistance, stipends, utility arrears, moving expenses, furniture, and relocation. With intensive support at its focal point, the Housing Advocate works closely with families to establish an effective rehousing and stabilization plan.  Once the families have met all of the Home Base requirements, they are ready to exit the shelter and begin the next phase of the program – “stabilization”.

During the stabilization phase, our Case Managers work with families on accessing additional housing resources, providing life-skills and financial empowerment training.  The stabilization phase offers families an opportunity to connect with vital community resources necessary to sustain long-term stable housing, and the support they need to maintain a safe, healthy family unit.