Income and Employment Services

Getting people into their own homes is just half the challenge; the other half is helping them to stay there. All clients who are housed—whether through housing vouchers or short-term financial assistance—will need income to stay in that home indefinitely. Our Income and Employment services help individuals and families increase their income through benefits counseling and employment services.

Employment Services

At Columbus House, Employment Specialists provide one-on-one support to help clients prepare for, find, and keep employment. They assist with online applications, resumes, cover letters, interviewing, and computer skills, while connecting clients to additional vocational training and community employment programs. Employment Specialists also serve as liaisons between clients and employers to support long-term job success. 

Financial Coaching

Staff work with clients to assess income, expenses, and financial goals, offering practical guidance to build financial stability. They provide support with budgeting, banking, credit improvement, and access to financial resources—helping clients gain the knowledge and confidence to manage their finances and live independently.

Representative Payee Services

Services provide financial management for those receiving Social Security or Veteran Administration benefits. Assistance includes managing their benefit, using benefits to pay for the current and foreseeable needs, saving any remaining benefits; and keeping good records of how benefits are expended.

SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR)

SOAR is a national project designed to increase access to the programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) for eligible adults who are facing homelessness and have a mental illness and/or a co-occurring substance use disorder.