Submitted by Haley Schneider, recently promoted to the new position of Housing Advocacy Program Director, overseeing the Transitional Supportive Housing Program and Safe Home Supportive Services.

Transitional Supportive Housing (TSH) is available to survivors participating in the agency’s Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Program. It is for survivors in need of safe and stable housing because they are experiencing domestic abuse and their home is not a safe place to live.

Program participants must be 18 years of age or older and meet income eligibility criteria. TSH provides rental subsidy and supportive services for up to 24 months, for 15 families at a time across the five counties served by Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM). Currently, the program is designed to serve 14 survivors with dependents and one survivor without dependents.

In addition to rental subsidy, TSH also has funding available to assist participants with other needs, such as: groceries, diapers, utilities, car repairs, tuition costs, gas and medical expenses.

TSH program supports WRCNM’s overall mission and values

TSH supports survivors throughout their unique healing journey. Participation is voluntary and survivors are able to utilize other WRCNM services at their discretion. The program goal is that 24 months of support will lead to financial independence, accomplishment of self-determined goals, access to other community resources and the creation of a peaceful and non-violent home environment.

TSH positively impacts women and their family members in the program

TSH provides financial relief, safe and adequate housing and individualized supportive services to participants while they navigate leaving an abusive partner and finding autonomy and emotional healing. During their time in the program, survivors are supported on their journey of completing personal goals that they otherwise may not have been able to complete. These goals often include gaining financial stability, attending college, paying off debt, repairing their credit score and sometimes even working toward purchasing a home of their own.

What participating families say about the TSH program

Program participants were recently asked what aspects of the program they find most helpful. Some of their responses are below.

“Having a place to feel safe to grow and be independent. Getting the opportunity to provide a stable home for me and my daughter. Most of all, having the opportunity to have a better life. Thank you.”

“It has helped me grow as a person and as a mother. I was able to reach all my goals in the past two years. I’m currently attending North Central Michigan College and also working. I appreciate all the hard work Haley has done for me. She has gone above and beyond to make sure I have everything I need to succeed in life. It’s been a joy to have her in my life. I will forever be grateful for WRCNM.”

“The program made me feel secure during a very hard time in my life. All the programs are incredible! I’m amazed by the support I’ve received. I cannot say enough good things about this program/center. Thank you for everything!”

“Housing has helped my situation tremendously! Counseling is beneficial. I continue to think I’ve got this, but need to realize I need the support. Budgeting, I do manage well and if I need help I just have to ask. Thank you!”