March 8, 2021

Transitional Housing

News

CASA Revitalizes its Transitional Housing Program for Domestic Violence Survivors in Pinellas County

CASA’s Transitional Housing Program, a critical resource for domestic violence survivors in Pinellas County, was suspended in 2015 due to a reprioritization of HUD funding. Through CASA’s strong partnership with Pinellas County’s Continuum of Care (COC), the Homeless Leadership Alliance (HLA), CASA was able to resecure the funding needed to reopen much needed housing to survivors.

Transitional Housing is a supportive – yet temporary – housing accommodation meant to bridge the gap from homelessness to permanent housing. CASA’s goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where survivors can overcome trauma, begin to address the issues that led to homelessness, and rebuild their support network.

“The Homeless Leadership Alliance has been a strong advocate in recognizing domestic violence as a leading cause of homelessness in our community,” said Lariana Forsythe, CASA’s CEO. “Because of HLA’s encouragement and support, we’re now able to revitalize this program, giving survivors the opportunity for stable and affordable housing as they begin to heal and move forward with their lives.”

More than 90% of homeless women experience severe physical or sexual abuse at some point in their lives, and 63% have been victims of domestic or sexual violence. (source: National Network to End Domestic Violence)

“During this pandemic, we have all learned the importance of home. CASA is bridging an important gap in our system here in Pinellas to ensure survivors have safety and support while healing. The number of women and families experiencing homelessness and domestic violence in Pinellas County has grown and we are so excited for this new resource operated by one of Florida’s largest certified domestic violence provider,” said Amy Foster, Homeless Leadership Alliance’s CEO.

CASA’s Transitional Housing Facility can provide up to seven individuals or families housing at 30% of their income for up to 24 months. Additionally, survivors staying at CASA’s Transitional Housing Facility will have access to a variety of CASA’s advocacy services, including but not limited to:

· Empowerment based workshops

· Youth and adult support groups

· Budgeting classes

· Resume writing assistance

· Crisis counseling

· Safety planning

· Help to navigate the criminal, civil, and dependency justice system

Program Eligibility:

· Participants must be 18 years of age or older.

· Homeless due to domestic violence.

· Receiving services through a domestic violence organization.

Additional Details:

· Participants will be given a $66 allowance for utilities monthly. They will be responsible for paying the difference between that and their total utility expense along with their rent.

· Participants will be allowed a maximum of two pets per unit, with a $50 non-refundable fee per pet.

For program entry details please email info@casa-stpete.org