By Trish Svoboda/Images courtesy of DCCCA

A new transitional housing project in Douglas county, led by DCCCA, aims to provide a safe and stable environment for women completing residential substance use treatment and their children. Lori Alvarado, DCCCA CEO, said many women leaving treatment have limited resources, no job, and few housing options, especially those ineligible for public housing. “Depending on what has happened in their past, some of them are not eligible for public housing or section eight.”

The new housing will provide residents with six to twelve months of support while they continue outpatient treatment. During that time residents receive assistance to gain employment, learn budgeting skills, and prepare for independent living. Each woman will have access to a case manager who will help connect them with resources such as childcare, job readiness programs, health coverage, and nutrition support.

“Each woman and her family will likely have different needs,” said Alvarado. “So our case manager will work individually with each resident and work on getting them the services they need.”

Construction on the $4.2 million project is expected to be completed by early summer of 2026. The project is funded through a public-private partnership that includes the City of Lawrence, Douglas County, and the State of Kansas.

As far as expanding, Alvarado said once they work the model and make sure it’s successful, DCCCA would be excited to bring it to other areas with support to build or renovate in other communities.

She said the goal is to help families achieve stability, maintain recovery, and successfully transition into permanent housing. “We want to help these women get established and have a whole new life and be contributing, connected members of the community.”

To stay informed on this project, or to show support through donations or volunteering, visit www.dccca.org.