Often the introduction to Our House, and our longest-running program, the Housing program includes an 80-bed dormitory known as the Shelter, and a transitional residence, known as the Family House. Clients that first step onto our campus have three weeks to find a full-time job. After that, they are required to maintain a full-time position during their stay at Our House. Throughout their time at Our House, residents are encouraged to take full advantage of all Our House programs, using the Career Center, Client Services Department, and Children’s Programs to better their chances in sustainability once they exit. In return, Our House residents have a responsibility to pay a small maintenance fee, save most of their earnings, and participate in daily chores. Residents can stay up to two years, and they are encouraged to stay at least six months to get the full benefits of the program. Often residents follow a plan of increased privileges and responsibilities by moving into the Family Housing program. Once they leave the campus, alumni of the Housing programs are encouraged to continue using our services on campus and families may apply to enroll in our Homelessness Prevention program called the Central Arkansas Family Stability Institute, or CAFSI.
the shelter
The Shelter is a safe, dormitory-style home for 80 men, women and children. There are two dorms: one for men and one for women and children. The Shelter provides basic needs for all residents including three meals a day, clothing, and hygiene items. The campus also includes common areas, a dining room, a commercial kitchen, a playground and garden.
family house
Current residents can apply to be part of the Family House, an on-campus apartment style housing program. Family House members enjoy increased privacy, privileges and responsibilities. There are 13 units (for families, married couples, or adult roommates), a communal kitchen, and a common living room for relaxing and socializing. This is also where single fathers with children live. This unique program is a great way for residents to smoothly transition into permanent housing.
The Housing program recognizes and can accommodate residents with special needs such as disabilities, a criminal background, and those fleeing domestic violence or recovering from substance abuse.
what we offer
Beds are available on a first-come, first-served basis and bed openings are never held. Beds can be claimed only by arriving on our campus. To inquire about availability, please call the Intake Desk at 501-374-7383 ext. 221.
For more information about entering the Housing program, please call the Intake Specialist at 501-374-7383 ext. 186.
To be eligible for entry into the Shelter, a client must:
- Be homeless.
- Be willing and able to work 32 hours a week.
- Be able to provide a valid photo I.D. upon entry.
Single fathers will automatically be admitted to the Family House. Shelter residents can apply to move into the Family House and their acceptance is contingent on need, performance, and commitment to the program.
All residents in our Housing programs are required to work 32 hours a week. You will have 21 days to find a job after you check into our Shelter. An abundance of assistance is available in our Career Center to help our residents find employment.
We have separate dormitories for men and women. Children (including boys under the age of 18) are allowed to stay in our women’s dormitory with their mother. Children are not allowed in our men’s dormitory; therefore, single fathers will be automatically admitted to the Family House.
Once a bed is claimed, it is yours for two years pending compliance with all rules and work requirements.
There are many ways to help out our residents:
- Designate your online donation to Housing.
- Provide a meal for our Shelter residents.
- Volunteer on campus helping us sort donations, clean, work in the garden, and more!
- Donate items from our Amazon Wish List to support the needs of residents.
To volunteer, please contact the Volunteer Manager at 501-374-7383 ext. 184.
"I need structure and accountability, which Our House gave me. I opened a bank account, learned how to budget, improved my typing skills, and worked with my Reentry Case Manager. Our House is a very big support to me."
heather
FORMEr resident