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“I Feel Safe Here”: Shining a Light on Momentum’s Supportive Housing Program

Access to housing provides a stable foundation for people with behavioral health conditions. аÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÙÍø offers supportive housing services to keep our clients securely housed while they work toward recovery and healing. We assist clients in identifying housing options planned to meet their socioeconomic needs.

Momentum practices the “Housing First” model, which means that eligible clients can access and keep housing while they are still in recovery. We firmly believe that people need a place to live before they can tackle challenges like substance use, job seeking, budgeting, and rebuilding relationships.

To learn more about Momentum’s Supportive Housing Program (SHP), we caught up with Roberto Alvarez, Supervisor of Housing Services at Momentum. Thanks to Roberto for shedding some light on this essential program!

Roberto Alvarez, Supervisor of Housing Services

How does SHP work? How can individuals access supportive housing services at Momentum?

Momentum’s Supportive Housing Program (SHP) supports Momentum clients in gaining and maintaining independent living skills. Since Momentum’s SHP is temporary by design, our staff work closely with clients to ensure that there is proper skill development and skill transfer so that they can live independent, full lives after they move on from our agency. Momentum clients can access SHP services by having their respective case manager make a referral. The application process is done in collaboration with the client, case manager, and Supportive Housing staff.

What is a typical day for you as Supervisor of Housing Services? 

A typical day as the Supervisor of Housing Services involves being responsible for the daily operations of the program as well as ensuring a positive experience for clients; developing quality standards that are consistent for everyone who goes through our program. My main priorities are to respond to client needs and feedback, and to support the direct staff who are working alongside the clients.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is getting to be a part of someone’s treatment and recovery. While I may not work directly with clients, I work closely with my staff to ensure that there is alignment with the mission of providing clients with the best possible living situation. All members of the SHP team maintain the highest expectations in service delivery which is based on creating positive outcomes for our clients.

Anything else you want to add?

I am honored to contribute to this chapter in Momentum’s SHP legacy. I hope my efforts can inspire others in my position to continue working towards creating the most positive experience for our clients.