Tender Mercies primarily provides what is called “Permanent Supportive Housing” (PSH) for adults who have experienced homelessness and who have a documented history of mental illness. But what is it? And who benefits? Read more to find out.
What is Permanent Supportive Housing?
Permanent Supportive Housing is just that – it’s permanent housing for those who have been living on the streets, in shelter, or some other kind of temporary housing. Residents of that housing become permanent members of the community while they recover from experiencing homelessness. Housing is paired with supportive services that seek to seek to help each individual achieve their highest level of independence.
Does PSH work?
Yes! PSH is the “gold standard” for ending homelessness. Research shows that PSH is proven to be the most successful, cost-effective intervention for keeping people housed, while improving health.
Is PSH Shelter?
No. Permanent Supportive Housing differs from shelter, which is a temporary living space intended to ensure individuals experiencing homelessness can ensure their survival.
So people can just live at Tender Mercies forever?
Yes and no. Yes, folks who qualify for PSH will never be asked to leave; however, because the support they receive leads to greater stability, most residents choose to leave after about five years, in order to live more independently. For some residents, Tender Mercies will be their home for the rest of their lives, and it is our honorable duty to provide them with the security, dignity and community they deserve.
Do residents pay rent?
Yes! Residents sign a lease, receive their own key, and pay rent based on a percentage of their income, which is obtained through applying for Medicaid, social security income, and other program benefits. Residents of Tender Mercies never pay more than 30% of their income for housing.
Do residents have to be sober to live in PSH?
Sobriety is neither a requirement nor a prerequisite for housing. This evidence-based “Housing First” method seeks to create a stable environment for people regardless of sobriety so they have the space to confront the issues that led them to experience homelessness in the first place.
Who benefits from PSH?
Everyone. Municipalities focus resources on proven interventions, those experiencing homelessness receive the housing and security they need to survive, and public services like hospitals, jails and the justice system experience less strain from the pain and desperation homelessness proliferates.
