Regional Services
First Day extends its impact through regional coordination and housing navigation services, helping individuals transition from interim housing to permanent, stable living situations.
Housing Navigation Program: This program is a critical component of First Day's mission, employing two full-time housing navigators who each manage up to 20 clients. The navigators work closely with interim housing organizations, such as Awakening and Foley House, to provide comprehensive services. These services include outreach and engagement, comprehensive case management assessments, service planning, and housing location. Housing navigators assist participants with applications for mainstream entitlement programs, employment services, housing vouchers, and housing unit applications. They meet with participants weekly to review housing leads, update vouchers, complete unit applications, and address any other requirements necessary to secure housing. The Housing Navigation Program facilitates approximately 120 permanent housing placements annually across all sites, with about 30 placements specifically from the First Day Whittier Shelter.
Regional Coordination through CES: As the LAHSA regional coordinator for homeless services, First Day plays a pivotal role in coordinating housing and support efforts across Southeast Los Angeles County. The agency's integrated approach ensures that various services and resources are connected to achieve the common goal of stable, permanent housing for all participants. Through this coordination, First Day extends its reach to over 500 individuals annually, providing essential support and resources to those in need.