Somerset County’s IHNSC transitional housing program

Somerset County residents are able to find a new path to financial stability when they are threatened with homelessness. The Interfaith Hospitality Network of Somerset County (IHNSC) uses a stairstep transitional housing approach to help residents who cannot afford to pay rent and security deposits for a new place.

IHNSC operates one of the more successful transitional housing programs to serve Somerset County, New Jersey. One of the reasons for the success is that it utilizes different levels of rental assistance to allow residents to graduate to new levels of independence.

Many clients initially contact the organization because they are looking for emergency rental aid. This could be to help cover late rent or to try and move to a new place. Rather than simply hand out money for a tenant who still has budgeting problems, IHNSC can admit individuals and families into a full transitional housing system.

It works like this:

  • For eviction emergencies, the Emergency Shelter Program provides overnight lodging. For someone still employed, they can still have a place to sleep and shower, plus meals are provided. Case managers work to assess the situation and determine what needs to be done to restore independence.
  • Sunrise House provides an initial stop for families who enter the transitional housing program. Families are referred from the Emergency Shelter Program. Applicants for Sunrise House indicate that they would like help in transitioning to private rented housing, but with the help and support of staff to identify needed changes while they are staying at the home.
  • The second phase of transitional housing involves a move to private rented housing. This can be an apartment complex or a single family home. The agency provides ongoing case management for these tenants to help them avoid regressing back into homelessness. Many participants are almost able to be independent, but find that periodic setbacks can threaten their ability to maintain an on-time rental history.
  • Permanent Supportive Housing uses apartments to house clients who are unlikely to return to self-sufficient living. This allows for clients to live in a semi-independent environment while awaiting longer term subsidies that are paid through rental assistance vouchers.

Anyone who cannot afford rent payments could be a candidate for this transitional housing program. IHNSC operates from a West End Avenue office in Somerville, New Jersey. Clients may meet with case managers on site to discuss options and plan to participate in the transitional housing program. Appointments may be scheduled by calling the agency directly at 908-704-1920.