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Understanding the Types of Housing at Central City Concern
Tuesday, January 14, 2025When someone is working to overcome homelessness or substance use disorder, housing isn’t just about having a roof over their head. It’s about stability, support, and building a foundation for a better future.
At CCC, we offer a wide variety of housing options because we know people have different needs and are at different stages in their journeys. Here’s a look at the types of housing we provide, and how each is designed to help our clients succeed.
What do we mean by “supportive housing?”
Supportive housing is a broad term including both transitional and permanent options. The common thread is that it combines affordable housing with services like health care, recovery support, and employment assistance. For people transitioning out of homelessness or seeking stability in recovery, supportive housing sets a foundation for success. It provides the environment our clients need and deserve to thrive.
Transitional Housing: Stability for Growth
Transitional housing is designed to meet people where they are, offering immediate housing with as few barriers as possible. This is a critical first step for many, as it allows them to focus on their basic needs before tackling goals like employment or long-term recovery. Transitional housing can include:
Stabilization Housing: Residents may live in single-room occupancy (SRO) units or shared dormitory-style spaces. Staff members, including peer support specialists and case managers, offer therapeutic and harm-reduction support tailored to individual needs.
Alcohol- and Drug-Free Community (ADFC) Recovery Housing: This type of housing supports individuals and families in early recovery. Residents work on becoming self-sufficient while receiving supportive services, such as employment services and links to permanent housing. Case managers and both individual and group recovery programs help residents stay on track to meet their goals.
Veterans housing: Offered through a partnership with the Veterans Administration (VA), housing and support are provided specifically for veterans with their needs in mind.
Transitional housing at CCC is always voluntary, and residents are encouraged to set their own goals while learning skills to help them maintain housing and improve their overall well-being.
Permanent Supportive Housing: A Home with Added Support
For people who need ongoing support after accessing transitional housing, permanent supportive housing offers affordable housing paired with tailored services. This type of housing is especially important for individuals who have been chronically homeless or face challenges such as mental health conditions or substance use disorder recovery. At CCC, permanent supportive housing can include:
- Communities for people struggling with mental health challenges, which offer optional services like case management and peer support. Cedar Commons is CCC’s only residential building that offers these specialized services.
- Housing and Health Outreach Partnership Efforts (HOPE), offering chronically homeless people rent assistance and services, even if they’re not living in CCC-owned buildings.
Affordable Housing: A Long-Term Place to Call Home
In addition to transitional and permanent supportive housing, CCC offers affordable rental units for individuals and families earning between 0-60% of the area’s median income. These homes are a vital resource for those who may not need intensive support but who still face barriers to accessing traditional market-rate housing.
Why so many options?
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to homelessness and recovery. Different people need different types of supports. Some thrive in environments with structured programs and frequent staff interactions, while others are ready for more independence. By offering a range of housing options, we can meet people where they are and help them move forward at their own pace.
For many of our clients, housing is just one piece of the puzzle. With access to health care, peer support, and employment services, our residents can gain the tools they need to rebuild their lives and thrive. At CCC, we’re not just providing housing–we’re building hope and opportunities for a brighter future.
Are you looking for housing? We can help.
Explore your options below or call (503) 525-8483 for assistance.
