Frequently Asked Questions
Questions? Start Here.
Learn more about Carla's House of Healing, our Supervised Independent Living (SIL) program, eligibility, referrals, and the support available to help young adults build a more independent future.
General Questions
Learn more about what Carla's House of Healing is, who operates the program, and how we support young adults.
1. What is Carla’s House of Healing?
Carla’s House of Healing is a Supervised Independent Living (SIL) program designed to help young adults prepare for adulthood through supportive housing, individualized guidance, life-skills development, and connections to education, employment, and community resources. The goal is to help each young adult work toward a safe, stable, and independent future.
2. Is Carla’s House of Healing a homeless shelter?
Carla’s House of Healing is designed as a supportive living program focused on preparing young adults for independence, rather than simply providing a place to stay. The program combines a living environment with skill development, individualized planning, and support for the transition to adulthood.
3. Who operates Carla’s House of Healing?
Carla’s House of Healing is a program of Houston Strong Children Services. Carla’s House provides the living-program experience, while its broader mission focuses on helping young adults develop the skills, resources, and relationships needed for long-term independence.
Eligibility & Admissions
Find information about who can be referred, age requirements, and the admissions process.
4. Who can be referred to Carla’s House of Healing?
The program is intended for young adults who meet its eligibility requirements and can benefit from supervised independent living support. Eligibility may depend on age, individual circumstances, referral requirements, and applicable program guidelines. Please contact our team to confirm whether a young adult may qualify.
5. What is the age requirement?
Age eligibility is determined by the program’s current admission criteria and applicable requirements. Please contact our team to confirm the accepted age range before submitting a referral.
6. How does the referral process work?
To get started, complete the online referral form or contact our team. Our team will review the information provided and explain the next steps, including any additional information, documentation, or assessments needed.
7. What documents are required for admission?
Required documentation may vary depending on the young adult’s circumstances and applicable program requirements. After an initial referral, our team can explain which records, identification, assessments, or other documents may be needed.
8. Does submitting a referral guarantee placement?
No. Submitting a referral begins the review process but does not guarantee acceptance or placement. Eligibility, individual needs, program requirements, and availability must be reviewed before a placement decision can be made.
Life at Carla’s House
Explore the support, services and daily life experience for residents.
9. What support do residents receive?
The program’s pathway to independence focuses on areas such as individualized transition planning, education and career development, employment readiness, financial literacy, daily living skills, physical and emotional wellness, housing stability, transportation, mentorship, and community connections. Specific services depend on the program’s approved offerings and each young adult’s individual plan.
10. Will young adults receive help with education and employment?
Education and career development are important parts of the pathway to independence. Support may include exploring educational opportunities, preparing for employment, developing résumés and interview skills, and connecting with relevant training programs or employers, depending on available services.
11. Will residents learn financial and everyday living skills?
Building practical independence is a key program goal. Relevant skill areas include budgeting, banking, saving, cooking, grocery shopping, housekeeping, time management, personal organization, and learning to manage everyday responsibilities.
12. Are residents required to work or attend school?
Requirements concerning school, employment, training, or other participation depend on the program’s policies and each resident’s individual plan. Please contact our team for the current requirements.
13. How long can a young adult stay?
The length of stay depends on the program’s rules, eligibility requirements, individual transition plan, and applicable placement guidelines. Our team can explain the current limits and planning process.
14. What happens when a resident is ready to move on?
The goal is to help each young adult prepare for a sustainable transition toward independence. Planning may include exploring permanent housing, budgeting for living expenses, strengthening employment stability, planning transportation, and building a supportive network for the future.
Partnerships & Support
Learn how you can get involved, support the program, or schedule a tour.
15. How can my organization become a community partner?
We welcome interest from employers, colleges, trade programs, healthcare providers, financial professionals, mentors, housing partners, and community organizations. Visit our Community Partners page or contact our team to explore opportunities to support young adults on their pathway to independence.
16. Can I help by offering a job or providing training?
Yes, employment and training opportunities can help young adults build practical skills and prepare for their futures. Businesses and professionals can express their interest in offering job opportunities, workplace experience, career guidance, or relevant training through our community partnership channels.
17. How can I volunteer or become a mentor?
Community members may be able to contribute through mentoring, volunteering, sharing professional skills, or supporting approved activities. Contact our team to discuss current opportunities, suitability requirements, and any screening or training that may be required.
18. How can I donate or support Carla’s House?
You can explore ways to support the program through financial contributions, resident sponsorships, household essentials, meals, professional clothing, technology, transportation assistance, scholarships, and other approved resources. Visit our Support the House page to learn more about available opportunities.
19. Can our organization schedule a tour or partnership meeting?
Yes. Please visit our Contact page to submit an inquiry about scheduling a tour, discussing a potential partnership, or learning more about the program. Our team can follow up to discuss the next steps.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! If you didn't find the answer you're looking for, please reach out to our team. We'd be happy to assist you.
