Bissell Cottages

CCYCS is a program of Contra Costa Health Services Homeless program and operates with the philosophy that every young person has the ability to make good choices for themselves, when provided with gentle guidance, support, and positive opportunities. We value the diversity, determination, resiliency, and strength that all youth bring to our doors.

Program Overview

Bissell Cottages is a 24-month transitional living program for homeless youth ages 18-24, including those exiting foster care, who need mental health services and support as they transition into adulthood. Residents receive guidance and support from a personal coordination team that prepares each youth in their movement towards greater self-sufficiency.

Site Description

Bissell Cottages is a tri-plex of two and three bedroom apartments located in Richmond, CA. Each unit is equipped with a living room, kitchen, dining area and each resident has their own bedroom. There are shared laundry facilities on site and the "cottages" are located next to public transportation, restaurants, and employment centers.

Services

In addition to on-site, 24 hour staffing, Bissell Cottages participants receive intensive daily personal mental health service coordination. Residents also receive a full range of individual and group life skills training, counseling, substance abuse prevention groups, school enrollment and employment assistance, social-recreational activities, health care services, and a variety of peer support and education activities. Participants who complete the program will be transitioned into permanent housing.

Eligibility

All Cottage residents must be enrolled in the Contra Costa County Transition Age Youth Full Service Partnership offered through County Mental Health. Basic requirements for "full service partnership" and Bissell Cottages include but are not limited to the following:

Homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness.
Resident of West Contra Costa County.
Have a severe mental illness that seriously impairs their functioning in community living.
Youth must be between the ages of 18-24.

Referral Process

If you are interested in making a referral to Bissell Cottages you may contact the program at 510-234-2787. An assessment to determine minimum eligibility will be completed. If a youth is determined to meet initial eligibility and there is space available in the Bissell program, he/she will be contacted for an interview.

Content provided by the Homeless Programs of Contra Costa Public Health Division. For more information, call 925-313-6124.