AUSTIN, Texas — A new program in Austin is helping those experiencing homelessness find a place to live.
The Austin Rapid Rehousing program is a partnership between the City of Austin and organizations Endeavors and the Ending Community Homelessness Coalition (ECHO). The program's goal is to provide financial assistance in Austin's increasingly expensive housing market.
Around 200 people will be a part of the program.
"Within the next 12 to 18 months, we are case managing them to find stability … That could be life skills and job training," said Jasmine Barlett, lead case manager for the program.
Eralanda Lee lives in Austin and once experienced homelessness.
"It’s not a pleasant experience," Lee said.
Lee is part of the program. Through it, she's been able to get rental assistance and move into an apartment in North Austin.
"To come in and get rapid housing for so many people and for myself in such a short time span," she said, "it feels like a second chance, a fresh start."
Currently, Lee's working as a site coordinator for Meals on Wheels. She said the city needs more affordable housing, but this program has allowed her to save some money.
“Start saving, start budgeting, so that when you don't have that extra help, you don’t have to lose your housing," she said.