Berkeley Food and Housing Project

Permanent Supportive Housing


"We don't want this to be the last stop for our residents. If they want to be independent, we work with them to get them there."

- Vernette Suggs, RSR Program Manager

BFHP offers permanent housing with supportive services through a variety of programs.

Russell Street Residence

Russell Street Residence (RSR) was established in 2002 and provides permanent supportive housing for 17 formerly homeless adults diagnosed with serious and persistent mental illness (SMI). Residents at Russell Street receive 24/7 care. Staff works with residents to develop independent living skills and assess those who might be ready to move into a more independent setting, such as the Annex.

The Russell Street Annex is a 4-bedroom house on the same property that provides housing for an additional 4 adults living with SMI. Annex residents live semi-independently and are responsible for the maintenance of their home, cooking and cleaning. They still participate in program activities and outings, and work with staff on developing and maintaining independent living skills.

Services Offered:

  • 24-hour staffing
  • Meals
  • Therapeutic groups, activities and outings
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • Assistance with daily activities including laundry and personal hygiene 

Dwight Way Single Room Occupancy Units

Dwight Way Center is home to five Single Room Occupancy (SRO) units. These units provide permanent housing with wraparound support services for homeless veterans. The Center, which also houses our Men’s and Women’s Shelters and Veterans Transitional Housing program, offers a supportive, responsive and respectful environment. The building is ADA accessible, well maintained and has a landscaped backyard. It is located close to the downtown library, grocery stores, parks, and other neighborhood amenities.

BFHP will be works closely with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) which provides case management and clinical services to support the Veterans to remain healthy and housed. 

Shelter Plus Care

Shelter Plus Care (S+C) is a housing subsidy program with ongoing tenancy support services. Client in this program are high-need, formerly homeless individuals with one or more disabilities. They live in their own homes, pay approximately 30% of their income towards rent, and receive support services to help them maintain their housing.  

Services Offered:

  • Rental assistance
  • Home visits
  • Life skills counselling
  • Benefit advocacy
  • Case management