Affordable housing is a critical and growing need in California . But it's more than just housing. “Housing with HEART” (Helping Educate, Activate and Respond Together) offers an innovative, comprehensive approach to developing a long-term resident services program tailored to each of its communities. The goal is to respond to the current and future needs of residents to improve their lives, break the poverty cycle and move them toward non-subsidized self-sufficiency.

“Housing with HEART” is a 501 (c)(3) organization and an affiliate of JHC. JHC was one of the first nonprofit housing providers to recognize, and integrate into its program, the vital link between housing and on-site resident services.

Family

At JHC family communities, parenting classes are available – at little or no cost to the parents. Classes address issues at every stage of child development – from pre-toddler to teen – to better equip parents for the needs in today's changing world.

“Housing with HEART” works with other community agencies aimed at increasing the health and safety of its communities. These include everything from health/dental services provided by local community clinics and hospitals to Stranger Danger and bicycle safety programs provided by local law enforcement agencies.

Life Skill Classes for adults include resume writing, computer tutoring and English as a Second Language.

Children, Youth & Education

Access to support for education and technology helps lower-income students overcome the digital divide and achieve greater success in school. So wherever space allows, “Housing with HEART” provides after-school tutoring programs and computer tutoring along with Internet access. Children's enrichment activities include a summer curriculum designed to educate children by making learning fun and interactive.

“Housing with HEART's” school-year program supports students' in-school curriculum with special monthly themes that help them understand their world and their communities.

Teen programs and youth diversion efforts encourage older students to volunteer at their own community's center, helping younger students while developing and strengthening their own leadership skills.

Staff works with local agencies to ensure that resident children have necessary school supplies and clothing. The centers provide meeting space and help recruit adult volunteers for programs such as Scouting and Junior Achievement.

Seniors

“Housing with HEART” provides services at our senior communities that include food programs, exercise classes, health screenings, home repairs, and educational courses.

Financial

“Housing with HEART” encourages families to increase their earning power and stabilize their housing. Families are invited to First-time Homebuyer Assistance programs to explain steps to home ownership and how to plan for the future. Often, a first step is attending Budget/Credit Counseling classes to help residents re-prioritize their expenses and set up payment plans that help them escape the cycle of debt.

Community

“Housing with HEART” staff works with property management, property owners in the surrounding areas and local community agencies to set up crime prevention programs. This includes Neighborhood Watch, Community Awareness Fairs and participation in local community councils.

“Housing with HEART” staff provides information and referral services through local service guides created specifically for each community. These include phone numbers for food banks, emergency assistance agencies and a variety of other services aimed at supporting families in their quest to break the cycle of poverty and maintain self-sufficiency.

The Opportunity

JHC presently has ownership interest in more than 4,700 multi-family units, most housing families of three or more children. Additional units house single and married senior adults, some of whom are living on less than $9,000 per year. Currently, “Housing with HEART” serves more than 100 children in its after-school programs at seven JHC communities.