What is rapid rehousing?
Rapid rehousing (RRH) programs are best suited to individuals and families who need a temporary, time-limited supports to get back on their feet after a period of homelessness. Rapid rehousing helps people find a new unit and provides short-term support once they are housed. People don’t need employment or income to enter rapid rehousing but are ultimately expected to be self-sufficient when the program ends.
Rapid rehousing services include:
- Housing-focused case management,
- Rent and move-in financial assistance, and
- Connections to appropriate community resources to address other needs.
How does it work?
Rapid rehousing consists of short-term rental assistance and supportive services - anything from just a security deposit to up to two years of support. Rapid Rehousing case managers work with clients to assist them in finding affordable housing by helping them with housing paperwork and communicating with landlords.
To help clients maintain housing, case managers work with the client on an individualized action plan which may include connecting to benefits such as CalFresh, reengagement with family, reunification of parents and children, enrolling in school, or other assistance, depending on what kinds of support would enable long-term success.
Typically, at the beginning of enrollment the RRH program will cover all or most of the client’s rent; as the program progresses and the household’s income increases, the RRH program’s rental assistance will taper off gradually until, at program end, the client is responsible for the full rent. Marin County has RRH programs funded by local, state, and federal funds.