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Supportive housing is a crucial component of the recovery journey for many individuals at LESC. “This type of housing provides tenants with a safe and stable environment where they can focus on their recovery, mental health, and overall well-being,” explained LESC Divisional Director of Supportive Housing, Merry Limbu. “It’s a holistic and individualized approach. We are invested in helping to assure positive mental and physical health outcomes for our tenants,” she added, noting that LESC tenants can also take advantage of healthcare services through their primary care provider.
“We aren’t just focused on meeting our tenants’ basic needs but on supporting sustainable recovery. That’s why we take a personalized approach with an emphasis on harm reduction and a wide range of support services tailored to each tenant.” Merry explained that LESC meets tenants where they are, which may include situations where tenants continue struggling with relapse. “We know they don’t always get it right the first time. However, we look at relapse as an opportunity for learning.”
Each of LESC’s housing programs has specific eligibility requirements, aligning with its unique focus. However, each housing solution shares the common goal of providing tenants with the opportunity to rebuild their lives and regain their independence. The approach at LESC is integrative, addressing a comprehensive network of care – including housing, harm reduction, recovery, mental health, and overall well-being in a supportive and caring environment.
Franklin Avenue residence includes 98 affordable studio apartments in the Bronx, 71 of which are allocated for chronically homeless single adults referred from the shelter system. Referrals are also received through the Human Resources Administration (HRA). “This program caters to individuals with a history of substance use, or who are currently struggling with active addiction,” Merry pointed out, “because substance use disorder poses a barrier to living independently.” The remaining 27 community tenants are selected through a lottery.
Franklin Avenue tenants also have access to communal spaces where they can participate in social activities, meet with caseworkers and peer support specialists, attend support groups, and build meaningful relationships. This sense of belonging helps combat isolation and enhances their emotional well-being. “It’s a place where tenants find not only shelter but also a whole network of support,” Merry explained.
Diversity Works is a family building that is designed to help preserve and strengthen families dealing with substance use by offering a continuum of support services for the entire family. Diversity Works tenants have access to essential services such as substance abuse assistance, mental health care, job training initiatives, case management, and various resources aimed at ensuring their ongoing stable housing. Diversity Works families also have the opportunity to participate in the “Keeping Families Together” program – a groundbreaking initiative that integrates permanent supportive housing with services dedicated to preserving family units.
The Diversity Works facility consists of 42 apartments, with 34 dedicated to homeless families referred by the shelter system. Merry went on to explain that to qualify for this housing, the head of the household must have a substance use disorder. With a range of apartment sizes, this program supports families on their path to wellness. Diversity Works accepts referrals through the Human Resources Administration (HRA). The remaining 8 income-restricted units are filled by referrals from the community. Diversity Works provides practical, emotional, and financial benefits for families experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Backed by a supportive environment – including access to essential services – families are better equipped to build upon their strengths, gain independence, and achieve stability.
Scattersite Housing, often dubbed ‘transitional housing’, serves 25 individuals who are either in recovery or have recently exited residential treatment programs. The majority of tenants share two-bedroom apartments, while a few live in one-bedroom units. Scattersite is an essential part of the recovery continuum. Scattersite tenants pay 30% of their income (whether through public assistance, employment, and/or social security) as their portion of rent. By offering affordable housing combined with tailored case management services, tenants are guided toward breaking free from the cycle of homelessness, maintaining their sobriety, and regaining their independence, leading to improved health outcomes and greater social connectedness.
Transitional Safety Units are a new addition to LESC’s housing programs. It offers single adults who are participating in LESC recovery programs a safe space to live rent-free for up to 12 months while focusing on recovery. The goal is to assist tenants in finding permanent housing, ensuring they continue their progress toward lasting wellness. With access to temporary housing and support services, individuals are provided with the tools and structure they need to rebuild their lives and work towards long-term self-sufficiency. Services are geared toward supporting sobriety, encouraging personal growth, and providing access to resources that will assist tenants in finding stable and affordable permanent housing.
Pencer House provides 40 studio apartments for chronically homeless single adults living with HIV/AIDS. This program ensures a safe and supportive, stigma-free environment tailored to the unique needs of this specific population. Referrals are received through the Human Resources Administration (HRA) and HIV/AIDS Services Administration (HASA). Amenities at Pencer House include 24/7 security, a computer lab, a cafeteria, and a backyard.
By offering a wide range of supportive housing options, LESC is making a significant impact in the lives of countless individuals on their journey to recovery. These programs provide not only a safe place to call home but also the essential support and resources needed to rebuild lives and work towards a brighter, healthier future. It’s a testament to the organization’s mission and dedication to helping people find hope, resilience, and lasting wellness.
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Recovery is a process. That’s why the programs at LESC are not time-sensitive, they’re goal-sensitive. We work to address the individual needs of clients at every level, so they can become productive citizens in the communities where they live.
A healthier, more fulfilling life can be yours. Call or email us now to arrange a screening interview. A trained intake counselor is waiting to help you begin the admissions process.
Call: (347) 538-2632
Or email us at: info@lesc.org
We’re committed to nurturing resilient recovery through a program of treatment, supportive housing, education, and energized community engagement. Discover the relationships, the resources, and the safe and sound support system to begin your journey.
