New Program Launched to Help People Find Stable Homes

Montana has been dealing with a growing housing crisis, with homelessness increasing by 38 percent over the last 15 years. This has made it harder for many to find stable, safe places to live.

The lack of a home can lead to poorer health and wellbeing, with increased chances of mental health issues and chronic diseases.

To tackle this problem, the state of Montana has started a new initiative, termed the Tenancy Support Services program.

This program is designed to help people who are struggling the most with housing find and keep a home.
 

Why is Housing So Important?

Having a stable place to live is crucial for health and safety. People without homes face many risks, such as:
 

• Mental health problems
• Substance use
• Chronic illnesses
• Shortened lifespans

With more people facing difficulties in securing affordable housing, such a program could significantly help improve lives and strengthen communities.
 

What Does Montana’s Tenancy Support Program Offer?

This program has received federal approval to provide housing-related support to eligible individuals. It includes:

1. Pre-Tenancy Services

These services help people get ready to find and rent a home:
 

• Searching for a suitable house or apartment
• Understanding how to rent a place
• Learning about what it means to be a responsible tenant

2. Tenancy-Sustaining Services

These services help people stay in their homes:
 

• Assistance with moving in
• Education on tenant rights and responsibilities

 

Who is Eligible for This Support?

To be eligible for these services, a person must:
 

• Be enrolled in Medicaid
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have either:
  • A substance use disorder, or
  • A serious mental illness
• Currently homeless or at high risk of housing instability

The goal is to assist some of the most vulnerable members of the community in obtaining stable housing, which in turn helps improve their overall health.
 

How Does This Benefit Montana?

The Tenancy Support Services program is a key part of a broader strategy to enhance healthcare by addressing underlying causes of instability like housing insecurity.

By ensuring that individuals have safe and secure homes, the program also contributes to:
 

• Better mental and physical health outcomes
• Stronger, more resilient communities

 

Want to Learn More?

If you’re interested in more details or updates about these services, you can look up information on Montana’s housing support programs online.

This initiative is a positive step toward helping people build better, healthier futures.

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