Introducing the Karuna Inc. Pilot Supportive Housing Program
Helping residents find their own "life worth living" while providing safe, sustainable housing with 24-hour peer-based, person-centered support.
How is Karuna Different?
Karuna's Pilot Supportive Housing project is a new and innovative housing solution that does not currently exist in La Crosse. It has three core components that separate it from other supportive housing programs:
Co-Living Style Apartments
Six bedroom/two bathroom units with shared kitchen and living space provide comfortable rooming house accommodations. Rent assistance is included.
24-Hour Support Onsite
Karuna focuses on peer-based support and provides professional care coordination with other community service providers so each resident can work towards achieving their own personal goals.
Community Connection
Connection to community, friends and family is key to any successful transition out of homelessness. Karuna helps residents engage with community service and planned recreational activities.
Who's Eligible?
Individuals Struggling with Mental Health and Substance Use
Particularly those who experience persistent, intensive mental health needs and ongoing health physical health concerns.
Individuals Struggling to be Successful in Traditional Programming
Including people who have previously participated or are currently participating in a supported housing or shelter program but have been or will be discharged and returned to homelessness.
Chronically Homeless Individuals
Including individuals with a minimum of 12 months homelessness cumulatively over the last three years with preference given to those meeting HUD’s definition of chronic homelessness.
What is Required to Participate?
Rent Payment
Each resident is responsible for a monthly rent payment based on standard HUD subsidy calculations. Residents with no income will work with staff to obtain income or earn rent credits by engaging in extra hours of community service.
Community Service
Each resident will be required to participate in 20 hours of community service per month. The type of service is entirely up to the individual, based on their own abilities, and can be done on their own or with group projects.
House and Lease Rules
Typical lease obligations apply plus residents work together to create their own house rules.
How to Apply
Karuna accepted applications for its first 10 available units through September 29th.
Applications for these units have now closed.
All applicants who applied before the September 29th, 2023, deadline will be notified of their application outcome via their preferred contact method by October 10th, 2023.
Applicants who were not selected for one of the first available units will be placed on a waiting list. Please email info@karunahousing.org for more information or updates on your waiting list status.