The phone rings at a Vision House diversion center in Renton or Burien. A family in King County is on the brink of homelessness. They need advice, resources, guidance, reassurance, or all the above. 

With that call or email, Vision House staff initiate a “light-touch” diversion model. Our organization is well-known for our family services and transitional housing, but before those stages of our process, a swift and practical web of solutions may keep the family housed and safe.  

"We would like to thank Vision House for all the help we received. This program has helped us tremendously and we have been able to remain in housing for 3 years now. We had our struggles here and there but by the grace of God and everyone’s help, we were able to get by.  - Marco and Sarah"

Early Intervention

The first stage of the Diversion Program may take place over the telephone. Vision House staff engage families in a thorough, exploratory conversation to uncover immediate, realistic housing options. This proactive approach is vital in addressing the unique needs of each family quickly, minimizing the time they spend in crisis.

The families who call Vision House may need help identifying resources in their own network, such as family members who can provide a place to stay. Some families need access to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, the WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Nutrition Program, or other programs. At this stage, Vision House will provide a skilled staff member to help the family navigate applications for government programs or provide the bus fare to get to supportive family or friends.

One of the key advantages of the Diversion Program is the ability to act swiftly. By addressing housing instability or recent homelessness before it escalates into chronic homelessness, Vision House helps families avoid the traumatic and often debilitating consequences of long-term displacement. This early intervention not only saves families from the physical and emotional toll of homelessness but also reduces the strain on community resources and shelters.

A Network of Resources

The second stage of Vision House’s Diversion Program brings families into one of our Diversion Centers. Here, they will have a private meeting with staff as well as access to resources such as:

Housing and Employment Resources

Families have access to computers for housing and job searches in our Diversion Centers, providing crucial technology and assistance in their journey toward self-sufficiency.

Navigational Assistance 

Skilled staff help families navigate the complex web of community and government resources, ensuring they utilize all available support systems effectively.

Basic Necessities

Our Diversion Centers provide essential items such as laundry and shower facilities, a play area for children, and other items that support families as they experience homelessness.

Financial Assistance

Although the Diversion Program does not provide direct cash assistance, some assistance is available for needs such as groceries and gas, or bus tickets to family members who can provide stable housing.

Families typically remain in the Diversion Program for six months to a year. During this time, they receive ongoing support to ensure progress. Participating families engage in weekly communications with Vision House staff, and we provide continuous support in navigating housing, job searches, and other essential services.

In 2023, Vision House fielded 749 applications for assistance. Thirty-three families were housed, although all applicants received some form of support from the Diversion Program.

For example, a family of five was living in their vehicle and were unable to access local family shelters. They utilized Vision House facilities, including our showers, clothes washers and dryers, and computers to work on housing applications and print the necessary legal documents. 

Another family, a mother and child, have received a Housing Choice Voucher and are looking for their new home. Vision House staff are supporting the family as they navigate divorce and a protection order, and as they tour apartments and vet the neighborhoods for safety.

Beyond Diversion

Vision House’s commitment to families extends beyond immediate crisis intervention. By fostering long-term stability and resilience, we help families build a foundation for a better future. 

Learn more about our holistic, wrap-around family process here. To support our work, please consider donating to Vision House or shop our Wish List for families in need.  If your family is in crisis or in need of housing, visit our Get Help — Page (visionhouse.org) page.