Durham Housing

Community Support Program

The Impact of Hands-On Support Services for Tenants “Where they are at”

Hands-on support services at DRNPHC play a crucial role in improving the well-being, stability, and long-term outcomes of tenants, particularly those who are vulnerable or marginalized. These services go beyond just providing a place to live—they offer personalized, practical assistance to help tenants maintain housing, improve quality of life, and achieve greater independence.

Key of Support:

Housing Stability and Retention
  • Reduced evictions and tenancy breakdowns: Support workers help tenants navigate issues like rent arrears, neighbor conflicts, and lease compliance.
  • Improved crisis response: On-the-ground support can prevent homelessness by quickly intervening when tenants face health, legal, or financial crises.
Health and Well-Being
  • Improved physical and mental health: Support workers often coordinate access to healthcare, mental health services, and substance use programs.
  • Reduced hospitalizations: By managing issues proactively, support services can reduce reliance on emergency healthcare.
  • Reduced emergency services: unnecessary calls that tenants can learn to manage with other supports, skills
Life Skills Development
  • Increased independence: Tenants gain skills in budgeting, cooking, cleaning, and time management.
  • Empowerment: Tenants feel more capable and confident, which reduces dependency on external services over time.
Social Inclusion and Community Connection
  • Reduced isolation: Support services often facilitate social programs and peer connections.
  • Improved community engagement: Tenants are more likely to participate in local activities, work, or volunteer opportunities.
Safety and Risk Reduction
  • Early identification of risks: Regular contact means issues like hoarding, abuse, or deteriorating health can be addressed sooner.
  • Support with complex needs: Tenants with disabilities, trauma histories, or substance use issues benefit from personalized interventions.

Type of Support
We Can Offer:

  • Case management and individual support plans to address mental health & addictions
  • On-site staff that can assist with tenancy support
  • Life skills assistance
    Referrals to appropriate community providers
  • Groups programs for kids, youth and adults, recreational, educational, skills development
  • Safety events, presentations and workshops
  • Assistance with forms, appointments
  • Peer support lead initiatives
  • Community Hubs