Key Takeaways on Providing SOAR Services in Permanent Supportive Housing Programs

Overview

Permanent supportive housing (PSH) combines affordable housing with treatment and support to help residents sustain housing and improve their well-being. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI)/Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) model, which expands access to the disability benefit programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), is a natural fit to enhance the services of permanent supportive housing programs. A recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration SOAR Technical Assistance webinar, “Providing High-Quality SOAR Services in Permanent Supportive Housing Programs,” explored this integration. The webinar was full of expert insights and real-life testimonies about how SOAR and permanent supportive housing can enhance support for individuals with disabilities experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Integrating SOAR in PSH Increases Stability

Integrating SOAR with PSH can significantly stabilize the health and housing needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. This combination of housing and case management services is essential for promoting long-term stability for people with mental health and substance use disorders.

Understanding SSA’s Guidelines

Diandra Taylor from SSA shared how living arrangements and housing vouchers impact SSI benefits. This is crucial for SOAR providers to navigate the complexities of SSI eligibility effectively. As Taylor explained, “Benefits may vary depending on where you live, be it in someone’s home, an institution, or a group care or board and care facility.” Understanding these nuances allows SOAR professionals to better prepare their participants’ applications and manage expectations.

Collaborating in Rural Communities

Lauren Frederick of the West Virginia Coalition to End Homelessness discussed specific challenges faced in rural areas, such as service integration and the need for community partnerships. Her presentation provided tips for other rural communities looking to integrate the two models.

Community and Internal Collaboration

Tina Tryggestad from Couleecap, Inc. highlighted the benefits of internal and community collaboration in implementing SOAR within PSH. By fostering strong relationships with SSA offices, Disability Determination Services, and community partners, SOAR programs can enhance their effectiveness and reach. “We really work as a team, and any of my clients that happen to live in one of our PSH units, we’re able to work a little bit more cooperatively,” shared Tryggestad.

Real-Life Impact

Hearing from SOAR and PSH beneficiaries, like Olivette, a SOAR and PSH beneficiary, was particularly impactful. Olivette shared her journey through the disability determination process, underscoring the life-changing support she received from PSH and SOAR services. Her story is a testament to the programs’ capacity to positively alter a person’s life path.

Conclusion

The SOAR TA Center’s webinar provided a platform for learning and sharing best practices and highlighted the ongoing need for supportive services tailored to the needs of people with complex physical and behavioral health conditions. For those interested in exploring these discussions in more detail and learning from the experiences shared by our panelists, we encourage you to watch the full webinar.