SERVICES
We know, from decades of frontline experience as one of Southern California’s leading providers of Permanent Supportive Housing, that solving the homelessness crisis for people living with mental illness needs two things: affordable housing combined with ongoing access to supportive services. At ACOF, those services include: personalized case management for every tenant; a substance use recovery program; academic and enrichment support for children and youth; group and individual support with independent living skills, healthy living, and financial security; a career readiness program; and even providing essential veterinary care for tenants’ pets. Research confirms that Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) – part of a toolkit of approaches to ending homelessness – is highly effective in supporting people to rebuild their lives, and to thrive, after homelessness. The approach works, with nine out of ten ACOF tenants remaining stably housed for three years or longer in their ACOF apartment.
FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Our Family and Children’s Services Program promotes academic and personal growth for children and youth residing in ACOF family buildings through structured programming. In the fall and spring, the program focuses on academic enrichment, with staff and volunteer tutors facilitating activities supporting students with their schoolwork. In the summer session, youth participate in enrichment activities that expand their horizons, such as drawing, painting, music, gardening, and theater.
HEALTH & HOUSING
Our Health and Housing Program delivers group-based support programs that empower tenants with the knowledge to make healthier lifestyle choices to improve their quality of life. Topics include nutrition and cooking workshops, smoking cessation, diabetes awareness and management, physical activity, and medication safety. Tenants have access to mobile health clinics, durable medical equipment, vaccinations, and test kits. This program is a team effort, with extensive collaborations with health providers and community based organizations.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Our Professional Development Program helps housing-stabilized tenants build skills and confidence as they pursue work, study, and volunteer opportunities. ACOF’s Professional Development Coordinator assists tenants in creating resumes, practicing interview responses, gaining computer proficiency, and building a professional wardrobe. The program provides job preparation and continued life skills through a structured and cohesive ongoing program that imparts structure, teaches adaptability, and builds confidence, esteem, and self-actualization. Through this program, tenants can form healthier relationships, build community, and are empowered to reach their full potential.
SUBSTANCE USE RECOVERY
Our Substance Use Recovery Program provides personalized and group encouragement, support, programming, and resources for tenants who are working on their recovery from alcohol and other drugs. The team collaborates extensively with community-based programs and local treatment centers to provide tenants with access to medical/psychiatric, therapeutic, and interpersonal support needed to meet their sobriety goals, achieve stability, and reintegrate into their communities.
