Building pathways to stability, one family at a time
Carlsbad Transitional Housing and Homeless Shelter Inc. is dedicated to promoting the welfare of our community by providing families with marginal incomes a chance at renewed life. We believe every family deserves safe, decent, and sanitary affordable housing, combined with the guidance and support needed to achieve long-term stability and independence.
Since our founding, we have served hundreds of families in the Carlsbad area, offering not just shelter, but comprehensive support services that address the root causes of housing instability. Our person-centered approach helps families build the skills, confidence, and resources they need to thrive.
Comprehensive support tailored to each family's needs
Short-term housing with intensive case management to help families stabilize, build skills, and transition to permanent housing.
Our transitional housing program provides families with up to 24 months of safe, affordable housing while they work with dedicated case managers to address barriers to permanent housing. Services include budgeting assistance, employment support, childcare coordination, and connection to community resources.
Families pay 30% of their income toward rent, allowing them to save for deposits and moving costs. Our goal is to ensure every family exits to stable, permanent housing.
Income-restricted, well-maintained units for families seeking long-term affordable housing with security and dignity.
Our affordable rental program serves families earning 50-80% of the area median income who need quality, below-market housing. All units meet health and safety standards and are regularly inspected and maintained.
Tenants benefit from responsive property management, resident services, and a supportive community environment. Lease terms are standard 12-month agreements with options to renew.
One-on-one support covering financial literacy, life skills, parenting, mental health, and community connections.
Our family guidance services include individualized counseling and workshops on budgeting, credit repair, healthy relationships, stress management, and goal setting. We also provide referrals to mental health professionals, substance abuse treatment, and domestic violence support as needed.
Services are voluntary, confidential, and designed to empower families to make positive changes at their own pace.
Job readiness training, employment connections, assistance with documentation, and support for those reentering the workforce.
We partner with local employers and workforce development agencies to help residents obtain employment. Services include resume writing, interview preparation, job search assistance, transportation support, and help obtaining IDs, birth certificates, and other essential documents.
For individuals with criminal records or gaps in employment, we provide specialized reentry support and connections to employers committed to second-chance hiring.
A proven pathway from crisis to stability
Comprehensive evaluation of family needs, goals, and eligibility. We develop a personalized housing and service plan.
Immediate housing placement with wraparound support services. Focus on meeting basic needs and addressing urgent barriers.
Intensive case management, financial literacy, employment support, and life skills development to build long-term stability.
Assistance securing permanent housing, including rental search, application support, and move-in financial assistance.
+ See full detailsDuring the transition phase, families work with staff to identify suitable permanent housing options, apply for rental assistance programs, negotiate with landlords, and prepare for independent living. We provide moving support, furniture assistance, and 6-12 months of post-exit case management to ensure sustained success.
We welcome all families seeking stable housing and a fresh start
Connecting families to essential community support
Emergency help with electric, gas, and water bills through partnerships with local agencies and energy providers.
Request assistance →Connections to food pantries, meal programs, SNAP enrollment, and WIC services for families with young children.
Learn more →Referrals to licensed childcare providers, assistance applying for childcare subsidies, and after-school program information.
Get connected →Information on public transit, ride-sharing programs, and assistance obtaining driver's licenses and vehicle registration.
Explore options →Help enrolling in Medicaid, finding primary care and dental providers, and navigating health insurance options.
Get help →Referrals to GED programs, vocational training, adult education, and workforce development opportunities.
Start learning →Measurable change in our community
Hear from families we've served
Working together to end housing insecurity
Quick answers to common questions
Income limits vary by household size and program. Generally, transitional housing serves households below 50% of area median income, while affordable rentals serve those at 50-80% AMI. For a family of four, this typically means annual income between $25,000-$45,000. Contact us for current limits specific to your household size.
Waitlist times vary by program and current availability. Transitional housing typically has a 2-4 month wait, while affordable rentals may have a 6-12 month wait. We prioritize families with the greatest need and vulnerability. Apply early and keep your contact information updated.
Security deposits are typically one month's rent but may be reduced or waived based on financial hardship. Application fees are minimal ($25-50). We work with families to create payment plans and connect them to deposit assistance programs. No one is turned away solely due to inability to pay upfront costs.
Service animals and emotional support animals are always permitted with proper documentation. Pet policies vary by unit, but many properties allow small pets with a pet deposit and monthly pet rent. Contact us to discuss your specific situation and find pet-friendly housing options.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Indicate your accessibility needs on your application, or contact our office directly. We maintain accessible units and will work with you to ensure your housing meets your medical and mobility needs.
Submit maintenance requests through our online portal, by phone, or in person at the office. Emergency repairs (no heat, water leaks, electrical issues) are addressed within 24 hours. Routine maintenance is completed within 5-7 business days. All units are inspected regularly to ensure they meet health and safety standards.
Stay informed about our work and community
March 15, 2025
We're excited to announce 12 new affordable housing units will open at our Halagueno Street location. Applications now being accepted.
These newly renovated two- and three-bedroom units feature energy-efficient appliances, updated bathrooms and kitchens, and on-site laundry facilities. Rents will range from $550-$750 per month based on income. Priority given to families currently on our waitlist. Units will be move-in ready by May 1st. An open house is scheduled for April 20th from 2-5 PM.
February 28, 2025
Thanks to our generous community, we raised over $45,000 at our annual benefit dinner to support resident services and home repairs.
The February 22nd benefit dinner drew over 200 attendees and featured remarks from former residents about their journeys to stable housing. Funds raised will support our emergency assistance fund, childcare subsidies, and critical repairs to aging units. Special thanks to our event sponsors and the many volunteers who made the evening possible. Photos from the event are available on our social media pages.
January 10, 2025
New collaboration brings job training, resume workshops, and employer connections directly to our residents.
Starting this month, the Carlsbad Workforce Solutions Center will host twice-monthly workshops at our facility covering resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies. Residents will also have access to on-site job fairs connecting them with local employers committed to hiring from our program. This partnership is part of our ongoing effort to help families achieve financial independence through stable employment.
Dedicated professionals committed to our mission
Executive Director
Linda brings 18 years of nonprofit leadership and affordable housing expertise. She oversees strategic direction, fundraising, and community partnerships.
Housing Manager
Robert manages property operations, maintenance, and tenant relations across all our units. He ensures all housing meets quality and safety standards.
Resident Services Coordinator
Angela leads case management, resident programming, and connections to community resources. She works directly with families on their goals.
Community Leadership
Our seven-member volunteer board includes local business leaders, housing professionals, and community advocates who provide governance and oversight.
Carlsbad Transitional Housing and Homeless Shelter Inc. is governed by an independent Board of Directors that meets quarterly to review operations, finances, and strategic direction. The Board maintains a conflict-of-interest policy and adheres to nonprofit best practices.
We are committed to transparency and accountability. Annual financial summaries, program reports, and IRS Form 990 are available upon request. For more information about our governance structure or to request documents, please contact our office.
We're here to help – reach out today
Your donation helps families find safe, stable housing and build paths to self-sufficiency. Every contribution makes a difference—from emergency assistance to home repairs to resident services. 100% of donations go directly to program services.
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