Safe Place for Youth (SPY) and Venice Community Housing (VCH) are dedicated to providing young adults with housing and critical resources that support long-term stability. The lack of available housing programs for youth in West Los Angeles has been a significant challenge in preventing or abating experiences of homelessness. To combat this, SPY and VCH have launched a new transitional housing program, Roots to Grow across two sites in Mar Vista and Westwood. The Roots to Grow program provides short-term housing for 20 youth between the ages of 18-24 experiencing homelessness, for periods of up to 36 months.

Program Model:

• Transitional Housing: Youth can stay in the program for up to 36 months, accessing housing, meals, and much needed support and resources as they search for more permanent housing solutions.
• Live-In Resident Coordinator: A Resident Coordinator lives at each site provide general oversight of the property and its residents, crisis response, and resident safety.
• On-Site Case Management: A Case Manager supports all residents with the housing search, securing employment and saving, and meeting personal goals.
• Education & Employment Services: Residents have access to a robust educational and employment programs, providing pathways to a diploma or equivalent, college enrollment, job training, internships, and leadership development.