Beyond Shelter Program

The Beyond Shelter in collaboration with the ACT Homeless Shelter and the Umbrella Domestic Violence Shelter is a program established to prevent the recurrence of homelessness.

Leaving emergency shelters face significant obstacles to a smooth transition back to the community. The immediate crisis that created the homeless situation may be resolved, but establishing stable housing and resettling one’s family brings its own set of challenges. The first three to six months after leaving the shelter are often the most difficult.

The Beyond Shelter program provides supportive services to assist in the transition The services provided may include education on landlord/tenant rights and responsibilities; life skills workshops on issues such as parenting and money management; assistance procuring food and furniture; as well as support in securing mental health and substance abuse treatment services.

Landlords receive assistance in matching renters to units and benefit from tenant education on landlord/tenant rights and responsibilities, including timely payment of rent. Landlords can request other assistance as needed to resolve problems that threaten housing stability.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Homeless at the time of application residing in Spooner House or Umbrella Domestic Violence Shelter;
• Willingness and ability to comply with an action plan;
• The head of household must have demonstrable income and must be transitioning from emergency shelter services (Spooner House or Umbrella Shelter) to a more permanent location.
• Rent for permanent locations should be affordable to the families.
• Housing specialist determines eligibility with client

Application Process:
Referrals only from Spooner House or Umbrella Domestic Violence Shelter

Coordinator:
Jaime Fields
30 Elizabeth Street
Derby, CT 06418
Phone: (203) 736-5420 ext. 1300