Supportive Housing vs. Renting a Room: What’s the Difference?
Supportive housing and renting a room may both provide shelter, but the purpose, services, and support behind them are very different.

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Supportive Housing

Supportive housing is designed for individuals with complex needs, including those experiencing:

• Homelessness

• Mental health challenges

• Substance use issues

• Physical or developmental disabilities

 

This model provides stable, long-term housing paired with a range of services such as:

• Case management

• Mental and physical healthcare

• Substance use counseling

• Job training and employment support

 

The goal: To help residents not only stay housed but also build healthier, more independent lives.

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Renting a Room

Renting a room is a private rental arrangement, where a homeowner offers a spare room to a tenant for a monthly fee. It typically does not include support services and is not designed to address complex barriers to stability. It’s often a good option for those who are more independent and simply seeking affordable housing.

 

At Embrace Home Housing, we focus on supportive housing because we believe in addressing both housing and the challenges that often come with it. Our program is here to serve Hampton Roads residents who need more than just a roof over their heads—we’re here to walk with you on the journey to stability and wellness.

 

If you or someone you know could benefit from supportive housing, please reach out to us. We’re here to help.