What Happens After the Shelter?

Aleta Keith
Apr 1
2 min read

Leaving the shelter isn’t the end. It’s the beginning of the next chapter.

Most people think of a shelter as a short-term solution: you stay, you recover, you leave.

But at C-U at Home, we know the journey doesn’t stop once someone has a roof over their head. In fact, that’s often when the real challenges begin.

Here’s what comes next—and how we continue to walk with clients after they exit our main shelter program.

Phase 4: Advanced Shelter

After completing the first three phases of our Pathways to Progress program, clients move into Advanced Shelter—a more independent living experience with continued case management.

What does this look like?

Clients live in a private room in a facility that is not staffed 24/7
They are expected to maintain sobriety and manage their mental health independently
They meet with a case manager twice a month
They work toward long-term goals like securing employment, rebuilding relationships, and saving money

It’s a critical bridge between structured support and full independence.

Optional: Ongoing Support (6–9 Months)

We know that even the best-laid plans can hit bumps in the road. That’s why we offer Ongoing Support—an optional add-on phase for clients who have exited our housing but want continued case management.

This support may include:

Help navigating unexpected job loss or housing issues
Emotional support to prevent relapse
Assistance with goal-setting and time management
Encouragement to stay engaged with positive community supports

It’s all about staying steady—and not slipping back.

Why This Matters

Homelessness is rarely a one-time event. Without follow-up, people can fall back into crisis. But with ongoing encouragement, accountability, and access to resources, recovery becomes reality.

And here’s the beautiful part: our clients aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving. They’re: