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Host Homes Program

Program Overview

To address the Cape's and Islands housing crisis, HPC, in partnership with Barnstable County and HUD, has launched the Host Homes Program. This program pairs homeless, transitional-aged youth (18-24) with community members who have underutilized space in their homes. Guests will have access to short-term shelter while building meaningful connections with their caring adult host. During the stay, the guests will be able to safely engage in their long-term housing search while saving income earned to be used toward their future housing needs.

 

HPC’s Host Home coordinator will match each guest with a host, based on living style compatibility, for a stay of 4 to 12 months. The youth guests can focus on future housing, academic, and employment goals with the help of their HPC Case Manager guiding them every step on their pathway toward success.

For any questions or inquiries, please contact our Manager of Youth and Young Adult Services, Mary O’Reilly, at 774-801-9502 or mary@hpccapecod.org.

Requirements and Supports for Hosts

HPC asks that hosts:

  • Provide an extra bedroom or private space in their home with access to a shared or private bathroom and kitchen to prepare meals and store food for the guest 

  • Live on the Cape Cod and the Islands

  • Commit to hosting a youth guest for at least 4 months

  • Complete application, interview, and home inspection, including background checks (CORI)  

  • ​Participate in an initial orientation, ongoing trainings, and monthly check-ins when requested

  • Show proof of renters/homeowners insurance

HPC support for hosts includes:

  • A taxable stipend of up to $1000/month

  • As-needed check-ins with HPC’s Manager of Youth and Young Adult Services to foster a positive relationship between the host and guest

  • Optional monthly Host Support Meetings to connect with other hosts and share experiences and discuss questions, concerns, or comments

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Requirements and Supports for Guests

HPC asks that guests:

  • Are 18-24 years old  

  • Actively engage in pursuing personal goals for housing, education and employment 

  • Participate in Host Home Program application/matching host process, orientation/training, monthly check-ins and/or weekly HPC case management meetings

  • Agrees to program requirements of no overnight guests, no substance use in the Host Home, and fulfills Host-Guest contract guidelines

  • Are respectful, thoughtful and communicate openly and often with Host and HPC staff

HPC support for guests includes:

  • Regular check-ins with HPC’s Host Home Case Manager to collaborate and work towards identified goals for self-sufficiency and success

  • Monthly events to connect with other Host Home participants to hang out, build friendships, and share experiences, concerns, questions, or comments about the program

  • Optional educational trainings provided by HPC staff on subjects including, but not limited to budgeting, Landlord/Tenant Rights, Housing 101, and How to Be a Good Tenant 

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