Supporting Stable Housing for Vulnerable Populations
Community Wellness Partners participates in the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI), a state-funded program aimed at providing stable, supportive housing for families, seniors, and individuals facing complex life challenges. ESSHI supports congregate housing solutions, offering services and funding to ensure safe, secure, and permanent living environments for eligible individuals.
What is the ESSHI Program?
The ESSHI program provides funding for services and operational costs associated with supportive housing across New York State. The goal is to create permanent housing solutions that address the specific needs of residents, helping them achieve stability and independence. As part of Community Wellness Partners, ESSHI provides comprehensive support for participants, ensuring they have access to essential services and resources that promote overall well-being.
Who is Eligible for ESSHI?
The ESSHI program serves individuals and families who are both homeless and have unmet housing needs. To qualify, participants must also have one or more disabling conditions or face other life challenges. The eligible populations include:
- Individuals with Serious Mental Illness (SMI)
- Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
- People living with HIV/AIDS
- Victims/Survivors of Domestic Violence
- Veterans and Military Personnel with Disabilities
- Chronically Homeless Individuals and Families
- Youth or Young Adults Exiting Foster Care
- Homeless Young Adults (18-25 years old)
- Individuals Reentering the Community from Incarceration
- Frail Elderly (55+ with daily living assistance needs)
- Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD)
The ESSHI program defines “homelessness” broadly, including those at risk of homelessness due to inappropriate institutional housing or lack of stable permanent housing upon reentry into the community.
How the ESSHI Program Works
The ESSHI program provides up to $25,000 in services and operational funding annually for each qualifying individual. Funding covers a wide range of supportive services, including:
- Case Management: Personalized assistance to help individuals access medical care, mental health services, substance use support, and other resources.
- Housing Stability: Resources to maintain secure housing, ensuring a safe and supportive living environment.
- Skill Development: Programs that promote self-sufficiency, including employment assistance, financial management, and daily living skills.
- Health and Wellness Support: Access to mental health services, substance use treatment, and healthcare coordination.
Long-Term Commitment
ESSHI contracts are awarded for five-year terms, with the potential for renewal based on state funding availability. Community Wellness Partners works closely with participants to ensure ongoing support and successful transitions into stable housing environments.
The Impact of ESSHI
By providing essential housing services and resources, the ESSHI program aims to reduce homelessness, promote stability, and empower participants to lead healthier, more independent lives. As part of Community Wellness Partners’ broader mission, ESSHI helps build stronger, more resilient communities by addressing housing insecurity and offering comprehensive support for vulnerable populations.
