House Plus Care programs are designed to offer a stable living environment combined with essential support services for individuals facing significant life challenges. These programs are particularly crucial for adults and households who are experiencing homelessness and living with disabilities. By integrating housing with tailored care, these initiatives aim to empower vulnerable populations to achieve stability, improve their well-being, and foster independent living. This article will delve into the specifics of what constitutes a House Plus Care program, focusing on eligibility criteria and the vital support it provides.
Eligibility for House Plus Care Programs
House Plus Care programs, such as the PSHP (Permanent Supportive Housing Program), typically have specific eligibility requirements to ensure that the services reach those who need them most. Generally, these programs are tailored for adults and households who meet the following key criteria:
Disability and the HUD Definition
A core requirement for many House Plus Care programs is having a disability. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines disability broadly for these programs, encompassing individuals with physical or mental impairments. This includes conditions arising from alcohol or drug abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, or brain injury. For a condition to qualify as a disability under HUD’s definition, it must:
- Be long-term or of indefinite duration.
- Significantly hinder an individual’s ability to live independently.
- Have the potential to improve with more suitable housing conditions and supportive services.
It’s important to note that diagnoses must be verified by a qualified professional, such as an MD, DO, LCPC, APRN-BC, NP, PA, psychologist, or another licensed professional authorized by the State to diagnose and treat such conditions.
Literal Homelessness or Fleeing Domestic Violence
Another critical eligibility criterion is experiencing literal homelessness or fleeing domestic violence. HUD defines literal homelessness under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act as lacking a “fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” This definition includes several situations:
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Living in places not meant for habitation: This encompasses locations like parks, tents, woods, or substandard vehicles such as RVs lacking essential utilities. For example, residing in an uninsulated shed without access to running water would qualify as literal homelessness.
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Living in temporary shelters: This includes emergency shelters, transitional housing, and motels paid for by charitable organizations or government programs. The key factor here is that these are temporary arrangements, not permanent housing solutions.
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Fleeing Domestic Violence: Individuals and families fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence, who have no other residence and lack the resources to secure permanent housing, are also considered eligible under this criterion. Domestic violence, as defined by HUD, includes dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other dangerous conditions that make an individual afraid to return to their primary nighttime residence.
MaineCare Eligibility and Supportive Services
Many House Plus Care programs also require or strongly encourage participants to be eligible for MaineCare, Maine’s Medicaid program. MaineCare provides health insurance to residents who meet specific criteria related to household composition, income, and disability status. While MaineCare eligibility is often a requirement or strong preference, the overarching goal is to connect individuals with the supportive services they need. These services are integral to House Plus Care programs, offering assistance with various aspects of daily living, healthcare, and personal development, all aimed at fostering stability and independence within a supportive housing environment.
In conclusion, House Plus Care programs represent a vital resource for individuals facing the dual challenges of homelessness and disability. By providing not just housing, but also crucial supportive services, these programs offer a pathway to stability, improved health, and a greater quality of life for vulnerable populations.
