PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: TRAVELER’S AID - LINKING INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES IN TRANSITION (LIFT) PROGRAM

NOTE: As of fall 2012 this program is no longer available. See Traveler's Aid website.

Traveler’s Aid, a non-profit social service agency, recently announced a new program, Linking Individuals and Families in Transition (LIFT).

The LIFT program will assist individuals in the Boston area, who are homeless, stranded, leaving the area, or looking to relocate to more stable housing. Services available to these individuals include:

• Assessment, brief counseling, and guidance
• Assistance in developing plans to address challenges and utilize strengths and resources
• Referrals to shelters, substance abuse and mental health treatment, food assistance and employment and training programs
• Assistance with a one-way bus ticket

In cases where assistance with a one-way bus tickets is requested, co-pay is typically required of the individuals. Additionally, the client must work with the Traveler’s Aid staff to establish and confirm by phone safe shelter upon arrival at their destination.

To receive LIFT services, individuals must go to the Traveler’s Aid Family Services, Inc. office and meet with a case worker. The program runs on a walk-in system. However, if an individual is referred to the program by another social service agency, Traveler’s Aid would appreciate information on the client’s situation in the form of a letter and/or phone call, from the person making the referral.

The Traveler’s Aid Family Services office is located at17 East Boston Street in Boston. The main phone number is (617) 542-7286.

For more information please visit: www.tafsboston.org

11/06