"When thinking about 'supportive services' in PSH (permanent supportive housing) I think what comes to mind for most is applying for benefits, scheduling appointments, navigating complex systems, and we do a lot of that.

But the day to day can be so different. The transition into housing can be complicated and learning the systems, structures, and life skills to maintain it presents a different set of challenges.

At Mason Place we are in people’s homes with them every day and become a part of the community. We move through good days and bad days together navigating these complexities. 'Supportive' is holding space for grief, anger, and frustrations while simultaneously finding joy and celebrating birthdays and baby showers and every little win.

Supporting residents to maintain their housing might be doing dishes and cleaning together before a home visit. Sometimes it’s walking to the store together to teach some one how to get a money order to pay rent for the first time. It is putting out fires (sometimes literally), sharing meals, and creating a community where we build each other up." - Thistle, Mason Place Case Manager