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Housing Programs

Community-Based Housing

Supported Housing Program

Supported Housing helps eligible adults living with serious mental illness obtain and maintain safe, stable housing in Orange County. Mental Health Association in Orange County operates several housing initiatives designed for people with different needs, experiences, and levels of support.

Some programs serve adults transitioning from hospitals or residential settings, experiencing homelessness or housing instability, living with co-occurring conditions, or managing other complex needs.

Who We Serve

Community-Based Housing programs serve adults who:

  • Have a serious mental illness
  • Need support obtaining or maintaining stable housing
  • Meet Orange County Adult Single Point of Access (SPOA) eligibility requirements
  • Meet any additional eligibility requirements for the specific housing program

Eligibility, housing needs, program requirements, and available openings are considered when reviewing each referral.

Services and Supports

Services are based on the participant’s needs and housing program. Support may include:

  • Assistance obtaining and maintaining safe, affordable housing
  • Rental assistance or subsidized housing, depending on the program
  • Help understanding leases and tenant responsibilities
  • Support communicating with landlords and addressing housing concerns
  • Assistance developing budgeting, household management, and independent living skills
  • Help accessing benefits, healthcare, treatment, and community resources
  • Coordination with healthcare providers, care managers, and other members of the participant’s support system
  • Support developing goals related to housing stability, wellness, and independence

Participants work with MHAOC staff to develop an individualized plan based on their needs, strengths, and goals.

How to Apply

All referrals to MHAOC Community-Based Housing programs must be submitted through Orange County Adult SPOA. MHAOC cannot accept direct applications for housing placement.

Orange County Adult SPOA reviews each application and helps determine which mental health housing programs may be appropriate. Applicants do not need to identify a specific MHAOC housing program before applying.

Access the Orange County Adult SPOA Application.

What Happens After a Referral?

If Orange County Adult SPOA refers an applicant to an MHAOC housing program, staff may contact the applicant or referral source to:

  • Review the applicant’s housing and support needs
  • Explain the program and its requirements
  • Request any additional information needed
  • Determine whether the available program is an appropriate fit
  • Discuss possible next steps

Submitting an Adult SPOA application does not guarantee placement. Placement depends on eligibility, individual needs, program requirements, funding requirements, and availability.

Need Immediate Housing Assistance?

MHAOC Community-Based Housing programs are not emergency shelters and cannot provide immediate placement.

If you are experiencing homelessness or need help locating emergency housing resources, call 311 within Orange County or 1-800-832-1200. A local counselor is available 24/7 to help identify resources and possible next steps.

Our Impact 2025

  • Services Provided in our Community

    102,600+

  • Meals Served to Participants

    8,500+

  • Crisis Contacts

    65,000+

  • Sexual Assault Survivors Supported

    200+

© 2026 Mental Health Association in Orange County Inc.
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