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WAYS for Life®  Logo

A Safe Place to Start.
A Strong Foundation to Grow.

Housing

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At WAYS for Life, our Housing Department supports young adults ages 15–25 who are ready to take the next step toward independence. Whether you’re navigating life after foster care, experiencing housing instability, or preparing to live on your own for the first time, our team is here to guide, advocate, and empower you every step of the way.

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We believe that housing is more than a roof overhead - it's the foundation for stability, confidence, and growth.

Services We Offer

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Affordable Housing

  • WAYS for Life partners with local private landlords and utilizes affordable housing listings provided by the Housing Authority of Brevard County to help young adults locate safe, stable, and affordable rental opportunities.

  • Our Housing Team assists with reviewing listings, connecting with landlords, understanding leases, and completing applications.

  • We walk beside you every step of the way, offering guidance and advocacy as you secure your next home.

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  • A three-month rapid rehousing program for young adults who are unhoused.

  • Participants receive a private bedroom, shared facilities, and access to all WAYS for Life services.

  • One-on-one case management.

  • The Transitional House is more than temporary housing — it’s a launchpad for independence.

Transitional House

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FYI Voucher

  • The Foster Youth to Independence Housing Choice Voucher (FYI) provides rental assistance for youth ages 18–24 who were in foster care at any point between ages 16 and 18. It covers a portion of HUD market rate rent for up to three years, helping participants focus on education, employment, and growth.

  • Extended Foster Care (EFC) provides financial assistance directly to landlords for housing for youth ages 18 to 21 who were in the legal custody or licensed care of DCF on their 18th birthday. EFC also provides the youth with a monthly stipend. To be eligible for EFC, a youth must be working, training, in school, or have a disability that prevents them from participating in these activities. Please contact us for further information.

  • WAYS for Life assists with FYI applications, housing searches, housing placement, ongoing case management, and wraparound services.

WAYS To Serve

1

Housing Team

There are many opportunities to volunteer within the transitional house and other housing programs

2

Moving Specialists

Help youth move into their new homes with dignity and confidence, including new moms/baby proofing, furniture building, utilities set-up, lease understanding, security deposit protection.

3

Yard Maintenance/Gardener

Maintain the property and teach pride in caring for living spaces.

4

Move Out Specialist

Teach utilities close-out, lease compliance, security deposit rules, clean-up.

5

Cooking Classes

– Teach grocery shopping, food safety, and meal prep.

6

Life Skills Coach

Mentor youth in daily living skills, budgeting, and organization.

WAYS To Give

Housing Donation Needs

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Our registry provides essential household items for young adults moving into our transitional home or those aging out of foster care and preparing for independent living. Many of our members are starting fresh, and we want to ensure they have the essentials they need to create a safe and comfortable home.

Check the Amazon Wishlist for specifics!

WHY WAYS HOUSING SERVICES ARE NEEDED IN BREVARD

Increase in Unsheltered Individuals

In 2024, the number of unsheltered individuals in Brevard County rose to 779, a 17% increase from 2023. 

Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

The number of people experiencing homelessness in 2023 was approximately 1,070, the highest recorded since 2015.

Apartment Deficit

Brevard County has a shortage of 2,528 apartment units, contributing to housing scarcity. 

Cost-Burdened Households

A significant number of households in Brevard County are spending more than 30% of their income on housing, indicating affordability issues. 

Opening Doors: 2024 Housing Impact

10

Members moved into transitional or emergency housing.

11

Members maintained WAYS housing for a full year.

8

Members moved into permanent housing.

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WAYS for Life | Wraparound Youth Services
 

1401 Guava Avenue, 2nd Floor
Melbourne, FL 32935

321.204.4577
hello@waysforlife.org
 

FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT DONATIONS OR THE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Leslie Thomas

321.382.0340

leslie.thomas@waysforlife.org

DROP-IN CENTER HOURS

MONDAY - THURSDAY

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Appointments available 8 AM - 6 PM 

FOR QUESTIONS REGARDING THE GED PROGRAM

Judi Osborne

321.234.5329

judi.osborne@waysforlife.org 

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© 2025 WAYS for Life®. All rights reserved. 

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