Home should be a place where you feel safe and secure. While many of us might take that for granted, not all young people moving into Jesuit Social Services’ Perry House have had that experience.
The program provides supportive housing for young people who are involved with the justice system and at risk of homelessness.
Lucas*, who has an intellectual disability, spent more than a year living in Perry House. He says his life turned around once he had a stable place to live and started receiving good support.
Leanne Acreman, General Manager of Housing and Complex Needs programs, said that the recently redeveloped Perry House gives residents control over their own lives. This helps them to feel respected. They have a key to their room that other people don’t have access to and their own private bathroom – these things make them feel safe.
“We really think that within that environment, we hope we can help them repair and recover from some of the trauma they’ve experienced in their lives,” she said.
They want to make their own decisions, have a sense of privacy, and efficacy in how they lead their lives...we think it's a really important part of helping young people develop their skills, look at training and job opportunities and look for safe, affordable, long-term housing, a place that they can thrive.
General Manager of Housing and Complex Needs
The combination of a safe home, trusted relationships and self-determination provides a pathway away from crime for young people like Lucas.
*This participant’s name has been changed for privacy reasons.
