FAQs

• What is the Secure Dwellings Program?
  Secure Dwellings is a transitional housing program that provides safe, stable housing and supportive services for mothers and their children while helping families work toward independence. It is located on the Presbyterian Home for Children campus in Talladega, Alabama.
• Who can apply?
  Women age 21 or older who have minor children, from infant to 17 years old, in their care and are experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness may qualify.
  
  Women who are working toward reunification with children in DHR custody and need stable housing may also be eligible.
• Do I have to be homeless to qualify?
  Not necessarily. Housing insecurity can take many forms. You may qualify if you are living in an unsafe situation, facing eviction, staying with friends or family (“couch surfing”), living in a hotel, or experiencing other unstable housing circumstances.
• Do I have to live in Alabama?
  No. We welcome families from throughout Alabama and neighboring states. Families have come from across the Southeast to begin a new chapter through Secure Dwellings.
• Is Secure Dwellings an emergency shelter?
  No. Secure Dwellings is a transitional housing program rather than an emergency shelter. After you submit your interest form, a social worker will contact you to begin the application process, which includes interviews and an assessment.
• How quickly will someone contact me?
  A member of our team typically contacts applicants within 24-48 business hours.
• What kind of housing will my family have?
  The Presbyterian Home for Children campus includes several types of family housing. Every family has a private bedroom, and depending on availability, housing may include shared kitchens and bathrooms or apartment-style accommodations with private bedrooms, bathrooms, and laundry facilities.
  
  The campus also includes outdoor play areas and a welcoming environment where children can learn, play, and grow.
• How long can we stay?
  Families may stay in the program for up to two years while working toward employment, education, and independent living. Each family works with staff to develop an individualized plan based on their goals and progress.
• What is expected of me while I’m in the program?
  Secure Dwellings is designed to help mothers and their children move from crisis to stability and, ultimately, independent living. Throughout your stay, you’ll work alongside a caring case manager who will help you create a personalized plan based on your goals and your family’s needs.
  
  As part of the program, you’ll work toward employment, education, or job training while participating in classes and one-on-one support focused on budgeting, financial literacy, parenting, life skills, and other tools that strengthen families.
  
  Every family’s journey is different. Our team is here to encourage, support, and equip you every step of the way.
• What services are provided?
  Secure Dwellings offers personalized case management along with employment assistance, GED and college support, job training, parenting education, financial literacy, life skills coaching, and help connecting families with community resources and benefits.
• Is there a cost to live in Secure Dwellings?
  Yes. Participants contribute an affordable occupancy fee based on their income, up to 30%. After paying three months consistently, 10% is given back. This helps families prepare for independent living while providing safe, stable housing and supportive services.
• Can my children stay with me?
  Yes. Secure Dwellings is designed to keep mothers and children together as families work toward long-term stability and independence.
• What if my children are currently in DHR custody?
  If your children are in DHR custody due to housing instability, you may qualify to live in the Robinson Family Unity Center on our campus. Our social workers work closely with you and the Department of Human Resources to support your reunification goals.
• Can I work while living at Secure Dwellings?
  Yes. Employment is required as part of the program, and our staff will help you find work while assisting with transportation and childcare resources whenever possible.
• Can I attend school or college?
  Absolutely. Whether your goal is earning a GED, completing technical training, attending a vocational program, or pursuing a college degree, our staff will help connect you with educational opportunities that support your future.
• Is childcare available?
  School-age children are required to attend PHFC’s accredited private school, Ascension Leadership Academy, located on campus. Younger children may attend Cheaha Regional Head Start and other available childcare programs in the community.
• What if I’ve experienced domestic violence?
  Many women who come to Secure Dwellings have experienced difficult circumstances, including domestic violence. If you are seeking a safe place to rebuild your life with your children, we encourage you to contact us to learn whether the program is right for your family.
• Is the campus safe?
  Providing a safe, supportive environment for mothers and children is one of our highest priorities. Residential buildings are secured and living areas remain locked to provide privacy and peace of mind.
  
  Our campus is well-lit, staff offices are located on-site during business hours, and visitor policies help protect the families who live here.
• What happens after I apply?
  After you complete the short online interest form, a member of our social work team will contact you to begin the full application process. You’ll complete an interview and assessment, and we’ll stay in touch throughout the placement process.
• How do I get started?
  Complete the short online interest form or call us at 256-362-1438. We’re here to answer your questions and help you determine whether Secure Dwellings is the right next step for you and your family.
  
  If you are certain about joining Secure Dwellings for safe and secure housing, you are encouraged to fill out our full application below.