Transitional Housing Toward Independence

Most youth without secure housing are unable to pursue their education, search for a job or tend to their physical, emotional or mental health needs until their most fundamental need—for safe, secure housing—is met.

The Transitional Housing Toward Independence (THTI) Program provides housing to homeless or precariously housed young people and helps them to achieve independence. The program serves young people who are out of school and those at risk of dropping out of school due to homelessness. The program is intended to duplicate, as much as possible, the kind of shared housing that is common to young renters and college students. It is available to youth aged 18-21, though 16- and 17-year-old youth may be considered with parental consent.

Each participant will have an individualized case plan that outlines the steps to be taken to move toward full independence. Full independence means that the young person will be able to hold a job, afford an apartment or a room and possess the skills to manage life with minimal agency support. Participants are expected to utilize the program for six to nine months.

Young people admitted to the program will be expected to contribute one-third of their income toward rent. Ten percent of the rent will be kept in a savings account for the youth and will be used for future housing expenses, such as paying for a deposit on an apartment.

Youth Services can assist youth in determining if they are eligible for any programs that could help with housing expenses. Some participants may be eligible for General Assistance Housing; others may be eligible for federal Homelessness Prevention and Re-Housing Program funds. Some may be eligible for Social Security Disability income.

Program oversight is provided by the Youth-In-Transition Housing Coordinator. A strong network of collaborating agencies has developed this program and is committed to continue working together to help homeless troubled youth find safe, secure housing where they can develop the skills and resources necessary to achieve independence.

For more information, call Youth Services at (802) 257-0361 and ask for the Youth-In-Transition Housing Coordinator or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .