In 2000, Sycamores created a Transitional Housing Program to address the high levels of homelessness for young adults (ages 18-26) transitioning from foster care to independent living. In addition to being the longest running and largest program for its scattered site model in Southern California, Sycamores was also the pioneer in integrating mental health services into this type of program.
Read MoreThrough our experience, expertise and reputation, our Transitional Housing Program has grown from 26 young adults living in Pasadena to 135 young adults in housing throughout Los Angeles County. Many of our young adults, also referred to as Transitional Age Youth (TAY), have either emancipated from foster or probation care or are in danger of being currently homeless.
Our Transitional Housing program is set up as a scattered-site model, which means that young adults are housed in two-bedroom apartment units throughout the county. TAY are eligible for a fully furnished, two-bedroom occupancy apartment, in which each young adult has their own bedroom. Sycamores provides all furnishings as well as household supplies, maintenance and repairs, and utilities. There is no rent requirement, and youth are encouraged to pay monthly towards their savings account, which is returned to them when they leave the program.
There are no prerequisites to receive our services and enter our program.
In addition to providing safe and secure housing, we also provide an array of mental health support including treatment for addiction, family search and engagement (to reconnect with loved ones), access to and assistance in securing vocational opportunities, and coaching and life skills training necessary for permanency and successfully living in a self-sufficient and productive environment.
Young adults receive employment experience and exposure to longer-term vocational opportunities through a 6-month internship and training program. The program’s training curriculum provides both employment and life skills training, while the internship provides work experience in addition to an income stipend.
Short-term, emergency housing that supports walk-ins and referrals alike, as well as young adults with special needs.
With funding from Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) and from the City of Pasadena, Sycamores provides young adults with temporary and safe shelter in a hotel setting. We then connect them with more permanent housing and services, preventing re-entry onto the streets.
