Supported Housing Services

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.