New Program Aims to Help Vulnerable Individuals Secure Stable Housing
Without a secure place to live, individuals are more likely to experience poorer health and shorter lifespans, including a higher risk of mental health conditions and chronic illnesses.
To address this issue, Montana's government has launched a new program offering tenancy support services to help those in need find and maintain stable housing.
Why Does Housing Matter?
Stable housing is a critical part of a person’s overall health and well-being.
Homeless individuals face higher risks of:
- Mental health challenges
- Substance use issues
- Chronic physical illnesses
- Shorter lifespans
With housing instability becoming more common, especially among low-income individuals, programs like this can make a significant difference in improving lives and communities.
What Is Montana’s Tenancy Support Program?
Montana recently received federal approval for a program that provides housing-related support for people who qualify. It offers two main types of services:
1. Pre-Tenancy Services
These help individuals prepare for finding housing:
- Searching for a suitable home
- Understanding rental processes
- Learning about tenant responsibilities
2. Tenancy-Sustaining Services
These services focus on supporting individuals who have found housing:
- Helping with the moving-in process
- Building positive relationships with landlords
- Educating people about their rights and responsibilities as tenants
Who Can Receive This Support?
To qualify for these new tenancy support services, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Be enrolled in Medicaid
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have either:
- A substance use disorder, or
- A serious mental illness
- Currently homeless or at high risk of housing instability
This program is designed to assist some of the most vulnerable members of the community in achieving stable housing and improving their overall health.
How Does This Help Montana?
The Tenancy Support Services program isn’t just about addressing housing—it’s part of a broader effort to improve health care in Montana by tackling the root causes of instability. By helping individuals secure a safe and stable home, the program also supports:
- Better mental and physical health outcomes
- Stronger and more resilient communities
How to Learn More?
If you would like more information about these services or updates on the program, you can:
- Contact Jon Ebelt at jebelt@mt.gov
- Visit the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) website
Montana’s Tenancy Support Services program is a step in the right direction, providing the resources and support needed for people to build a better, healthier future.
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