Farley House

The Farley House represents the last step for homeless women on their journey from homelessness to self-sufficiency. Up to 21 women at a time receive the following supportive services:

• Shelter:
  Residents live in furnished one-bedroom apartments. All apartments are well-appointed and stocked with kitchen items and other basic supplies. Women/Mothers stay for an average of twelve to fifteen months and a maximum of two years.

• Children's Program:
  Assessments are made to explore if children need additional support such as referrals for tutoring, individual counselling and referrals to community resources such as Girl and Boy Scouts to enhance socialization. A liaison for volunteer services specific to children works with various agencies including School on Wheels, Youth Mentoring programs, After School All Stars, etc. In January 2012 a children's program coordinator was hired to oversee the children's programs.

• Case Management:
  Each resident must develop a personal plan for permanent housing and employment and is required to meet with her case manager at least every other week to track progress. Case managers assist the women with realizing their short and long-term goals and offer guidance and support along the way.

• Counseling:
  Psychologists from Childrens Hospital Los Angeles provide weekly group counseling sessions for the women, where they follow a 16-week curriculum that addresses homelessness, domestic violence, stress, anger management and communication. Private sessions are also available to the residents

• Job Development and Employment Services:
  Residents have access to Good Shepherd Center’s on-site Employment Services Center, where they receive computer training, job coaching and placement assistance. The women also have access to training seminars and assistance with resume writing and interview preparation.

• Life Skills Training Workshops:
  Residents are encouraged to attend classes which cover a variety of topics such as housing rights, stress management, budgeting, personal safety and other issues related to independent living.

• Advocacy and Support for Family Reunification:
  Case managers work with unaccompanied women who have been separated from their children to develop a plan to reunite their families. For these women, the goal is to achieve financial stability and secure permanent housing so that they can provide long-term care and support for their children.