Families in Transition (FIT)
Families in Transition (FIT) was established in 1989, and is the areas premier transitional housing program. FIT seeks to help homeless families obtain and keep permanent housing, breaking the repetitive cycle of homelessness. FIT uses a comprehensive approach combining affordable housing with intensive, in-home case management, support services, counseling, education and skills training, and referral and collaboration with other agencies. FIT families participate in the program for 6 months to one year, with follow-up of up to 18 months.
Clients Receive:
- Access to long-term transitional housing
- Access to the food bank
- Support and respect
- Case Management to help set goals and create action plans
- Access to counseling, domestic violence services, abuse intervention workshops, alchohol & drug treatment
- Information and referral to other community services
- Help with money management and personal budgeting
- Help with job searches
Life Skills Training
FIT clients are always encouraged to learn skills and creatively find their own solutions.
Money management is a key piece of training in FIT, so that clients can:
- Work to resolve past debts
- Establish good credit
- Save for their next move into housing of their own
Questions & Answers
Who is eligible for this program?
Single and dual parent families with children under age 18 are eligible. You must be referred to us by an area emergency shelter.
The clients maintain their own sleeping areas, kitchen, and bath.
How are families chosen for FIT?
Families go through a 2 week screening process to insure that the meet program criteria:
- Motivation to improve their situation
- No substance abuse
- No active mental illness
- No violence
- A willingness to work closely with case managers
- Ability to meet financial obligations
- A willingness to comply with all program guidelines
How long does the average family stay?
Families stay in a transitional housing unit for one year. At the end of the year, they move into permanent housing.
Does it cost to participate in FIT?
Yes. Families must pay a monthly program fee based on their income.
Families also must pay rent and utilities, and set aside an amount in savings each month. Upon graduation from the program, the savings are used as a deposit toward the family's permanent housing.
Where do families get their income?
Families in FIT may be employed, receive unemployment benefits, SSI, or TANF.
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