Frequently Asked Questions
What is a housing guide?
Housing guides help clients identify solutions to address their barriers to stable housing. We encourage clients to explore safe permanent or temporary housing options and connect to natural supports and community services.
How do I make an appointment with a housing guide?
It’s easy! You can make an appointment online.
Appointments are available by phone or in-person.
What can I expect during my appointment with a housing guide?
First, we will complete a consultation form about your past housing successes and current housing barriers.
We will talk about what has worked in the past and what you can work on moving forward.
We will discuss your employment history, rental history, and what caused you to become homeless or at-risk of homelessness.
Finally, together we will develop a plan to obtain and maintain secure, stable, and safe housing for you and your family.
What is Housing Problem Solving (HPS)?
HPS is a model strategy endorsed by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development that seeks to prevent or quickly resolve homelessness using creative solutions.
How do I qualify for support from Front Door for Families?
While many of the programs we work with have eligibility criteria, Front Door for Families is not a benefit program. Our only requirements are:
- You have children living with you, or are pregnant, and
- You live in Mendocino County, and
- You are homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless.
What if I do not have children living with me?
Housing navigation services for adults without children in the household are available:
In Ukiah: Building Bridges Homeless Resource Center
In Fort Bragg: Mendocino Coast Hospitality Center
Do I need to be enrolled in Medi-Cal, CalFresh, or any other benefit program?
No. Our only requirements are:
- You have children living with you, or are pregnant, and
- You live in Mendocino County, and
- You are homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless.
How do I know if my income qualifies me for rental assistance or low-income housing?
Household income is an important factor in qualifying for rental assistance. Subsidized apartments offer units with different rent levels for different household income categories. Rental assistance, or vouchers, also have varying levels of income requirements. When you apply for a subsidized apartment, the landlord will help determine if your income qualifies. When you apply for a voucher with the CDC of Mendocino County, the staff will help determine if you qualify.
I am undocumented, can I make an appointment with a housing guide?
Yes. Front Door for Families has no immigration restrictions. Our only requirements are:
- You have children living with you, or are pregnant, and
- You live in Mendocino County, and
- You are homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless.
Many programs that provide subsidized housing and rental assistance DO have rules around immigration. Our housing guides are aware of these rules, and will help you navigate the housing market with these rules in mind.