In a mental health crisis? Call or text 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7. STEL main office: (716) 366-3200

Home · Housing & Programs · Supportive Housing

Supportive Housing

Your own apartment, anywhere in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, or Southern Erie County — with STEL’s financial and personal support behind you.

A supportive housing home
A supportive housing home

How it works

You live independently, in mainstream housing you choose. STEL stands behind you:

  • Help locating and securing an apartment anywhere in the three counties
  • STEL provides the security deposit
  • A monthly rental stipend paid to your landlord — on average, you pay about 30% of your income toward rent, heat, and electric
  • A stipend and help purchasing new furnishings and start-up necessities, which are yours to keep
  • Supportive counseling, daily living skills help, and negotiations with landlords when needed
  • Social and recreational activities to reduce isolation

Living with your children, spouse, or a housemate? You’re still eligible.

Who it's for

Supportive Housing is designed for adults who:

  • Have a primary psychiatric diagnosis meeting DSM criteria
  • Are 18 years of age or older
  • Are able and reliable in self-administering medications
  • Are linked with entitlements, or actively working on linkages
  • Are psychiatrically stable and capable of emergency self-preservation
  • Have the basic skills to live without direct supervision
  • Agree to participate in treatment with a primary mental health or substance abuse provider
  • For HUD-funded beds: are homeless or at risk of homelessness
Mainstream housing, your choice of neighborhood
Mainstream housing, your choice of neighborhood
A living room that’s yours
A living room that’s yours
A supportive housing home
Everyday houses on everyday streets

Prefer a shared home with support? See Single Room Occupancy.

All housing programs