Mental Health opens transitional housing at Lake Tahoe
El Dorado County Mental Health has just opened a new transitional housing unit in South Lake Tahoe to better meet local mental health needs, according to a press release from the county.
The transitional housing site (also known as a T-house) provides a supportive living environment and services for mental health clients who need help transitioning to stable, independent living.
“We are so happy to have the new T-house in Tahoe,” said Sabrina Owen, program manager of Mental Health in South Lake Tahoe, in the release. “With the T-house, we can help more clients become self-sufficient.”
Up to six people at a time can live at the T-house, which provides a supportive community environment, mental health professionals and services, such as wellness groups, medication management and classes in basic life-skills (cooking, cleaning and managing other household responsibilities). Residents are also encouraged to explore college classes and volunteer opportunities and are assisted with job searches once they are stable. The program is funded through State Mental Health Services Act dollars.
Potential residents of the T-house are prescreened by Mental Health staff and must meet eligibility requirements before moving in, according to Owen.
“The T-house residents must agree to participate in the program structure and treatment plans, and attend their required appointments. They must also agree to live drug-free and actively work toward their goals,” she said.
Most residents can expect to stay approximately six to 12 months, with the goal of ultimately finding independent housing and living on their own.
Mental Health expects to open a second T-house in Tahoe this fall. Individuals with questions about the transitional housing program may contact El Dorado County Mental Health at 530-573-7970.
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