Emergency Housing Program

A Partnership between The City of New Haven and Continuum of Care for the sake of our community.

We are facing a homelessness crisis in our community –
a crisis that affects people from all walks of life.
They are not just statistics; they are people with unique stories, dreams, and struggles.

Continuum’s Emergency Housing Program is a beacon of hope for desperate homeless individuals in our community. Continuum provides food, a warm and safe place to sleep, and a range of support services to help individuals get back on their feet and finally begin to rebuild their lives. 

The program is specifically designed for homeless adults, including families and singles.  This program is in response to the growing and dire numbers of homeless individuals in the City.  There are more than 500 homeless individuals in New Haven on any given day.  The new program is operated by a uniquely full complement of skilled staff who have extensive training in trauma informed care, verbal de-escalation, and other evidence-based methods that enable them to work effectively with at-risk individuals with special needs.  A nurse, clinical care, and direct care staff are also part of the staffing team.  The facility is staffed 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

Daily, the program will be able to serve 80-100 individuals. Some will stay for a few days, most will stay for a couple of months.  Annually, we expect to serve

The type of services provided, combined with the skilled staff and the length of stay make this Emergency Housing program is the only one of its kind in the State of Connecticut. It is truly transformation.  Clients are able to stay for up to 90 days if necessary.  They come to us with nothing, and need so much.  Initially, their needs are basic—food, shelter, a bed, a warm shower, laundry, and clothing.  From there, the assessment begins, as we determine their state of physical and medical health, mental health, financial situation, social connections, and more.  Then we help them go to work on meeting those needs.

 The critical focus for each client is on helping finding appropriate housing to meet their needs.  Continuum has direct access to housing options with services for individuals with complex needs.  Individuals experiencing acute issues will be identified at entry and transported to a more appropriate level of care. Experience indicates that triage, proper assessment, and resources lead to greater long-term success for people with complex needs.  Continuum’s various on-site and in-house services, including but not limited to behavioral health will ensure individuals are connected to resources that help them eventually find their way to permanent housing.

Key Compenents