The number of individuals exiting to permanent housing varies due to factors such as individual circumstances, rental housing availability, housing costs, gross monthly income, and employment options. Many participants struggle with substance use disorder and/or mental health challenges, which affect their ability to actively participate in program activities, secure and retain employment, and make sustained progress toward independent living. 

For FY23 (July 2022-June 2023) an average of 25 individuals exited to permanent housing each quarter, representing an average of 39%. The quarterly target for FY23 for the percent of individuals who exited to permanent housing is 60%. The acute lack of affordable housing in Vermont has made it increasingly challenging for successful program participants to acquire residential permanency.

The Department of Corrections (DOC) works in partnership with Designated Agencies, Public Housing Authorities, Community Justice Centers, affordable housing providers, private landlords, municipalities, and non-profit organizations. 

The following have helped in transitioning individuals to permanent housing:

• Affordable Housing/Subsidies
• Permanent Supportive Housing
• Housing Retention Services
• Access to Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatments
• Employment Support

The DOC partners, both formally and informally, with the Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA) and the Burlington Housing Authority (BHA) to access rental assistance/housing subsidies for eligible participants (when available). The DOC continues to explore systematic ways to connect participants to permanent housing and/or subsidies. 

DOC, and the transitional housing programs we fund, are focused on helping individuals stabilize in their communities. In January 2021, DOC issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for all transitional housing programs to increase the focus on exits to permanent housing in which new grants were awarded in July 2021. The shift away from congregate sober-living environments in favor of individual apartments with intensive supports. This shift continued to be supported in FY23 along with JRI supervision changes, this provided safe, stable housing that meets individual's needs while protecting public health and safety.