TIP
Transitioning to Independence Program (TIP)
The goal of the program is to assist youth, 16 - 24, to master skills required to maintain market housing while supporting them to continue to receive support for mental health/substance misuse. By removing the barrier of homelessness youth can put energy and focus towards other life areas such as educational, vocational and social goals.
The purpose of TIP is to provide 20 units of supported independent living for youth with addiction and or mental health issues. It is a transitional housing program with an expected stay of 18 months. The program consists of two components a rental supplement to enable youth to rent safe market housing and support services from a housing worker.
Currently it is difficult for youth with mental health or substance misuse to find and maintain safe, affordable housing . Our initiative tackles several crucial elements that addresses gaps in service. While goals of abstinence from substance use are supported it is not a requirement for participation, making the program accessible to a wider compliment of youth. If a youth is struggling with their treatment goals the housing worker will work with the youths support people to put what is needed in place in order for the youth to get back on track. The youth's placement in the program will not be at risk if the youth is struggling as long as they are willing to address the challenge. This approach allows youth to access treatment or family support while maintaining their housing.
The program also provides placements for youth returning from The Crossing (a residential recovery program), ensuring that youth returning from this long term facility have stable housing. The life skills groups facilitated by the housing worker nurtures an environment that is peer driven; where mentorship is encouraged allowing the more experienced group members to provide guidance and support to newer members. The life skills groups provide an opportunity for youth to gain valuable support on skills needed to maintain housing. Workshops have been held on tenancy rights, healthy boundaries, proper laundering of clothing and voting.