Supported Housing Services
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Supported Housing is an approach that creates the opportunity of affordable and permanent housing for consumers, while living independently in the community. Encompasses community support and psychiatric rehabilitation.

Services

• Assistance with locating and securing mainstream housing of the client’s choice anywhere in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, or Southern Erie County.
  
• STEL, Inc. provides a security deposit for the consumer.
  
• STEL, Inc. provides a monthly rental stipend to the landlord. The client a portion of their income towards rent, heat, and electric. The Consumer is still eligible for the program if they are living with their children, spouse, or other housemate.
  
• The Office of Mental Health (OMH) funded programs and some HUD funded programs provides assistance for the client to purchase new furnishings and start-up necessities, which they may keep.
  
• Linkages with community providers, negotiations with landlords, supportive counseling and some assistance in daily living skill development are provided when appropriate.
  
• Some activities to promote social and recreational skill development and to reduce isolation.

 
Eligibility Requirements

• Have a primary psychiatric diagnosis that meets the criteria for a DSM-IV psychiatric diagnosis.
  
• Eighteen (18) years of age or older.
  
• Competent and reliable in self-administration of medications.
  
• Be either linked with entitlements or will be actively involved in linkages.
  
• Capable of self-preservation.
  
• Be psychiatrically stable. Client does not represent an immediate potential or likelihood of serous harm to self or others, or is in need of a more intensive level of care in the opinion of their primary therapist or community residence staff.
  
• Have an IQ of 70 or above.
  
• Have the basic skills necessary to live independently, with the capabilities to reside without direct supervision.
  
• Agree to participate in treatment with a primary mental health/substance abuse provider.

Referral Information

For more information on the referral process, please contact the Supported Housing Client Caseworker at (716) 366-7792 Ext. 221.

Referral Application

Click here for a referral application.