For many adults living with disabilities or facing mental health challenges, stable housing can be the foundation for a better life. But navigating the system to get the support you need can feel overwhelming. In Minnesota, Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) were created to make that journey easier. These services are designed to help eligible individuals find, move into, and keep housing so they can live independently and thrive in their communities.
Whether you’re exploring this option for yourself or a loved one, this guide offers a step-by-step overview of eligibility, the application process, and the long-term benefits of housing stabilization programs in Minnesota.
What Are Housing Stabilization Services?
Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) is a Medical Assistance (MA) benefit that helps people with disabilities, mental illness, or other long-term conditions find and maintain stable housing. Introduced by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, this program addresses a critical need: housing insecurity for vulnerable populations.
The goal is not just to find shelter, but to help individuals live independently, safely, and with dignity in their communities. At WeCare, we are proud to support individuals through this process, ensuring they get access to the tools and support they need to succeed.
Who Can Benefit from Housing Stabilization Services?
Housing Stabilization is ideal for:
- Adults with a serious mental illness, substance use disorder, or developmental disability
- Individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability
- People transitioning out of institutions, such as hospitals, treatment centers, or group homes
- Seniors or adults with long-term medical conditions or mobility limitations
- Youth aging out of foster care
If any of these describe you or someone you care about, it’s worth exploring eligibility for this life-changing program.
The Three Types of Housing Stabilization Services
Minnesota’s Housing Stabilization Services include three core components:
1. Housing Consultation
This service is for individuals who do not have a case manager or targeted case management services. A housing consultant helps the individual:
- Understand the housing system
- Complete documentation
- Identify their needs, preferences, and goals
- Develop a person-centered housing plan
2. Housing Transition Services
This step is focused on finding and securing housing. It includes:
- Help searching for rental properties
- Filling out applications
- Connecting with landlords
- Coordinating moving logistics
- Addressing credit or rental history issues
The aim is to support the client in finding a safe and affordable place to live that aligns with their needs.
3. Housing Sustaining Services
Once the person is housed, sustaining services begin. These are critical for maintaining long-term housing success and may include:
- Lease education and budgeting support
- Landlord communication and mediation
- Crisis planning and intervention
- Help managing mental health symptoms that could impact housing
At WeCare, we offer compassionate, culturally informed support at every stage of the housing journey.
Eligibility Requirements for Housing Stabilization in Minnesota
To qualify for Housing Stabilization Services in Minnesota, individuals must meet three key criteria:
1. Be on Medical Assistance (MA)
The individual must be enrolled in Minnesota’s Medical Assistance (Medicaid) program.
2. Have a Disability or Similar Need
This includes:
- A documented disability (physical, mental, or developmental)
- A disabling condition that impacts independent living
- Cognitive impairment or behavioral health diagnosis
A Professional Statement of Need (PSN) form must be completed by a qualified professional (such as a doctor, therapist, or case manager) to confirm the diagnosis or condition.
3. Demonstrate a Housing Instability Need
The applicant must show one or more of the following:
- At risk of homelessness or eviction
- Living in an institution or a setting not meant for long-term living (e.g., shelter, group home)
- Experiencing barriers to stable housing (e.g., criminal background, bad credit, or lack of rental history)
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Housing Stabilization Services
Applying for housing stabilization services can be broken down into manageable steps. Here’s a roadmap to help you through it:
Step 1: Confirm Medical Assistance Enrollment
If you’re not currently on Medical Assistance, you’ll need to apply through MNSure or your local county office. Approval is required to access HSS benefits.
Step 2: Get a Professional Statement of Need (PSN)
Ask a qualified professional to complete the DHS-7122 form, known as the Professional Statement of Need. This form outlines your disability or health condition and how it affects your ability to find or keep housing.
Step 3: Choose a Housing Stabilization Provider
Find a DHS-approved provider like WeCare Social Services, who can guide you through the next steps. Your provider will assign a Housing Consultant if needed and begin working with you on your person-centered housing plan.
Step 4: Create Your Housing Transition Plan
Your Housing Consultant will help identify your needs, preferences, and barriers. Together, you’ll set housing goals, such as:
- Desired location
- Monthly budget
- Special accommodations (e.g., wheelchair access)
Step 5: Begin Housing Transition Services
Once approved, your provider will support you with:
- Locating housing options
- Completing rental applications
- Scheduling showings and tours
- Moving arrangements
Step 6: Maintain Stability with Ongoing Support
Once you’re in your new home, sustaining services help ensure long-term success. You’ll receive help with lease education, conflict resolution, and building independent living skills.
Common Challenges and How HSS Helps
Many people face roadblocks when trying to secure housing. Here’s how Housing Stabilization Services help:
| Challenge | HSS Support |
| Poor rental history or eviction record | Advocates communicate with landlords and help with references |
| Language or cultural barriers | Culturally responsive services and interpreters |
| No rental experience | Budgeting and lease education |
| Mental health crises | Crisis planning and access to behavioral health support |
| Lack of documentation | Help gathering necessary records and forms |
The Benefits of Housing Stabilization Services
Choosing to enroll in HSS can have long-lasting, positive impacts on individuals and families. Benefits include:
✅ Stable, Safe Housing
A secure place to live promotes better mental and physical health outcomes.
✅ Independence
With the right support, many individuals can manage their own homes, finances, and routines confidently.
✅ Reduced Hospitalizations and Emergency Shelter Use
Housing stabilization reduces the need for expensive crisis care.
✅ Community Integration
With a permanent address, individuals can build routines, access jobs, attend appointments, and participate in the community.
✅ Empowerment and Dignity
Having choice and control over where and how you live is a core part of human dignity. HSS helps make that possible.
Why Work With WeCare?
At WeCare Social Services, we believe that everyone deserves access to stable housing and a chance to live a fulfilling life. Our team works hand-in-hand with clients to:
- Complete all required forms
- Coordinate with county services and landlords
- Deliver compassionate, respectful, and person-centered care
We understand the local housing landscape, the ins and outs of the application process, and how to advocate for your needs at every step.
Housing Stabilization Services: Creating Lasting Change
When individuals receive the right housing support, the results can be life-changing. Housing Stabilization Services don’t just address immediate housing needs—they empower people to build skills, gain confidence, and live more independently.
From reducing hospitalizations and emergency shelter use to improving mental health and community engagement, this program is proven to help people reclaim stability and dignity. Every person’s journey is unique, but the impact of compassionate, consistent support is universal.
Final Thoughts: A Path to Stability Starts Here
Housing Stabilization Services in Minnesota provide more than just a roof over your head—they offer a path to independence, health, and hope. If you or someone you love is struggling to maintain housing due to a disability, mental illness, or health challenges, know that support is available.
At WeCare, we’re here to guide you through the process with compassion and professionalism. From navigating eligibility to creating a custom housing plan, we walk with you every step of the way.
Ready to take the next step?
Visit https://wecaremn.org to learn more or contact our team today to start your Housing Stabilization journey.
