Saddleback Community Outreach: Transitional Housing

South County Outreach (SCO)
Transitional Housing Program

Since 1994, SCO has operated a Transitional Housing Program dedicated to assisting homeless families. We own 16 condominium units, either one or two bedroom apartments, at scattered site locations in the cities of Lake Forest, Mission Viejo and Laguna Niguel. At any given time there are approximately 22 adults and 30 children residing in our units. The average length of stay is 6-9 months depending upon the family’s need and their progress. The goal of the program is that each family becomes self-sufficient and moves into permanent housing.

When clients enter the program, they are initially screened for eligibility. A plan is then developed with the client based on the identified needs of the family. Weekly meetings monitor and evaluate the family’s progress. Our staff includes MSW Program Managers and licensed clinical therapists. SCO works with other non-profits and contracts with various experts to provide a comprehensive list of services:

Weekly case management with MSW
Career coaching
SCO computer training / computer loan program
Legal counseling
Consumer Credit Counseling
Psychological counseling for individual/family with licensed therapist
Life skills training
Nutritional food/groceries and cleaning supplies

Each family pays rent, not to exceed 30% of their adjusted gross income. Additionally, each family sets up a savings program to save up to 25% of their income to be applied toward permanent housing. Program participants may continue to participate in a number of these services after they move into permanent housing.