Housing Program
The housing program is only available to female youth ages 14-21 years of age. A youth may be housed based upon their present living situation, such as being homeless, a runaway or at-risk.
The process begins with an intake process between a staff member of Tonya’s House and the youth. The purpose of the intake interview is to gather information regarding the youth’s past and present situation. Based upon the information given Tonya’s House will determine if the youth qualifies for the housing program.
When a youth qualifies for the housing program, there are requirements that must be met by the youth. Housing program requirements have been established for the benefit of the youth as well as the program and are as follows:
- Tonya’s House must obtain parental/guardian consent to house the youth.
- Youth must be enrolled in an educational program.
- Seek employment if not in an educational program.
- Youth must receive individual or group counseling.
- Youth must work toward self-sufficiency. The youth is expected to assist in household chores, prepare their own meals, laundry, and keep a clean room.
- Tonya's House has a zero tolerance policy for drug or alcohol use.
- Youth must follow the House Rules.
Tonya’s House requires daily participation from the youth regarding the program requirements and will track the progress for each youth. Attitude, effort, responsibility, respect and accountability are factors that determine how the youth is benefiting or not benefiting from the program.
If the youth does not qualify for the housing program, Tonya’s House will offer outreach services. The youth will also be linked to any community resources that may be of assistance.
Continuous success enables Tonya’s House to provide assistance for the youth. Unfortunately, any youth that is not consistent in meeting daily requirements will have their stay at Tonya’s House terminated.
Tonya’s House has an on-site House Manager available to assist the youth with life skills.