Housing Works

Results: Housing Works was founded in 2003 by a group of concerned members of the Immaculate Heart Community in response to the rise of homelessness, growing housing crisis, and lack of affordable rental units in the county of Los Angeles. Our work to fulfill this mission has evolved over the past ten years: Since 2007, Housing Works has networked with property owners and developers who are willing to provide apartments with government rental subsidies to families and individuals who have been chronically homeless and struggle with serious mental illness. Our Home First Project was launched through a start-up grant from the Corporation for Supportive Housing under the seasoned leadership of Mollie Lowery In July 2008, Home First launched the MIST project (Mobile Integrated Service Team) in partnership with A Community of Friends. MIST provides eviction prevention services to ACOF tenants who are at risk of losing their housing. MIST has been successful in helping 99% of the households served stabilize and retain their housing. Since November 2010, Housing Works has expanded the work of MIST- providing eviction prevention services to tenants of Hollywood Community Housing Corporation, Ascencia in Glendale, L.A. Family Housing, Alternative Living for the Aging Bonnie Brae Village, PATH, GettLove, Union Station’s Centennial Apartments, West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation, and WORKS Young Burlington Apartments. In addition, MIST accepts referrals of chronically homeless persons from agencies and churches- providing outreach, engagement, assistance with obtaining permanent housing (scattered site), and on-site support services to help the new tenant transition into and sustain their new home. This part of our work has continued to expand since January 2011 when HW’s MIST began providing to various agencies including Hollywood4WRD, CSH funded Frequent User project in Downtown Los Angeles and Pasadena, and Project HOUSED in Pasadena. In February 2013, HW’s MIST Project took a major step by contracting with the County Department of Health Services. We accept referrals of chronically homeless persons who are multi-diagnosed with health, mental health, and substance abuse issues, and who are frequenting County hospitals. We assist these individuals in obtaining permanent housing and provide the supportive services to help them sustain their housing and thrive.

Target demographics: To create accessible housing and service options that model, with respect and dignity, sustainable environmentally sensitive, affordable communities with people of limited resources.

Geographic areas served: Los Angeles

Programs: MIST and Empowerment Works