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Like all other MHA Village services, Housing is individualized. The MHA Village Housing Coordinator maintains relationships with landlords and other housing providers in the community to ensure the availabiliy and accessibility of housing options for members.
Members select the type of housing they want and need as part of their Personal Service Plan, which outlines members' living, work, social and educational goals. The surrounding Long Beach community has a wide assortment of affordable living arrangements, including apartments, board and care homes, and sober residential programs. The Personal Service Coordinator (PSC) guides the member through the process of connecting with the local Housing Authority for resources, rent subsidies, and discounts for eligible members. Through Community Grants & MHA Village's Financial Services, loans may be given on an invidual basis for security deposits and moving expenses. PSCs provide guidance and coaching about living skills such as budgeting, shopping, cooking, cleaning and landlord mediation. Social events, such as housewarmings & holiday gatherings, are organized by members and their neighbors. These events help reduce loneliness and isolation. MHA Village staff are available around-the-clock to respond to crises.
With this high level of individualized support, members who have never lived independently in their own homes are now able to do so. Members can have privacy and permanence in their own apartments in the community. Living in their own choice of housing is just another way MHA Village helps members achieve their recovery goals by helping them create roles that are not defined by their illnesses.