MORRIS COUNTY — Homeless Solutions has launched a Medicaid-funded Housing Supports Program and completed what is believed to be New Jersey’s first housing placement through the NJ Family Care (Medicaid) 1115 Waiver Housing Supports initiative. Impressively, the placement was completed in fewer than 60 days from referral to lease signing.
The NJ Family Care Housing Supports program enables Medicaid to fund pre-tenancy and tenancy-sustaining services for eligible individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability who meet specific clinical criteria. Licensed Medicaid providers, such as Homeless Solutions, deliver these services to help individuals locate, secure, and maintain safe, affordable housing.
“This success proves that coordinated systems change lives. This result reflects true partnership among health plans, state leaders, and mission-driven providers,” said Jaclyn Stoll, president and CEO of HSI. “We’re grateful to the Department of Community Affairs for their commitment to this program and for the $250,000 Readiness Grant that enabled Homeless Solutions to become a licensed Medicaid provider earlier this year. We also thank the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) and our managed care partners for helping turn policy into impact.”
In August, HSI received its first referral through the new program: a 73-year-old man with multiple chronic health conditions and mobility challenges. The individual, previously supported by HSI programs, urgently required relocation due to a foreclosure on his building and unsafe living conditions.
“We accepted this referral while we were still building our Medicaid program — he was one of our own. He needed us, and we were going to show up for him no matter what,” said Shannon Muti, director of programs and services.
HSI immediately mobilized rapid outreach, an accessibility-focused housing search, and document assistance. Within 60 days, HSI and its partners secured a senior apartment managed by longtime collaborator HQM, which recognized the urgency and expedited the placement. The man signed his lease on October 1, and staff quickly observed significant improvements.
“He had been sleeping in a chair. Having a bed to lie in at night has greatly improved his comfort and mobility. This is a perfect example of how housing truly is healthcare,” said Dominic Costanzo, associate director of transitional services.
As part of the NJ Family Care Housing Supports program, the man also qualified for Move-In Supports, a one-time benefit covering security deposits, basic furnishings, utility deposits, and essential household items. HSI partnered with several organizations and volunteers — including The Warehouse NJ, Dover Furniture House, Knights of Columbus Council 359, and volunteer Michele Caruso — to ensure a safe and comfortable transition.
The Housing Supports Program will formally begin accepting referrals in January 2026 from managed care organizations and community-based providers serving individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Services will be offered in newly renovated program space within HSI’s emergency shelter and will include shuttle service, meals, and other essential supports.
Households must have active Medicaid benefits and meet clinical criteria to qualify.
Agencies seeking more information may contact [email protected].
