A Sense of Home’s mission is to prevent homelessness by creating first-ever homes and a community for youth aging out of foster care. Bringing community together, we empower and celebrate former foster youth and their children by providing a home, critical resources, and a supportive network to not only prevent homelessness but to create an entirely new trajectory of hope, achievement, fulfillment, and good health.
Countering the complex trauma that young people exiting foster care have experienced with a “corrective event”, A Sense of Home’s unique model aims to provide former foster youth and their children with the tools necessary for each individual to heal, grow and achieve self- sufficiency— all surrounded by a community that builds trust, reveals kindness, inspires hope, and sparks joy.
How It Works
ASOH partners with LA County and DCFS to advance Permanent Supportive Housing. ASOH is the only partner agency with DCFS that refers former foster youth for vouchers and the only agency that DCFS turns to create homes for former foster youth. ASOH secures housing vouchers for former foster youth and once TAY youth receive the keys to their apartment, ASOH turns their empty space into functioning and inspired homes. ASOH connects TAY youth to additional services within our expansive Resource Network and supports them in onboarding to these programs. Resource Network opportunities include financial literacy training, educational scholarships, therapy, trauma informed healing, referrals for job placement, and job training.
ASOH welcomes recipients to pay it forward in supporting their peers in having their homes created. The Pay it Forward Alumna (PIFA) Community enjoys special events where they gather to learn about additional resources, receive custom gifts and wishes, and most importantly connect to the community. Pay it Forward Alumna are invited to become Peer Mentors. They too receive their own mentors and the cycle of support continues as each individual flourishes.
The Sustainable Model
Win Win Win Win for Society
The ASOH model addresses two major social crises: homelessness and the environment. We match excess consumer goods with those in need through a seamless process that adds value to every participant, at every step.
Reduce Landfills
Volunteers and participants gain improved well-being and productivity
An Aged-out foster youth gains a sense of home and a sustainable tenancy
Reduction in homelessness
Items Installed in Each Home
LIVING ROOM &
ADJACENT DINING AREA
Three Seater Sofa (1)
Club Chair (1-2)
Ottomans (1-2)
Two Seater Sofa (1)
Side Tables (2-4)
Coffee Table (1)
Console Table (1)
Desk & Chair (1)
Bookcase (1)
Area Rug (1)
Throw Pillows with Covers (4-6)
Wall Art (4-6)
Table Lamps (2)
Dining Table for Four (1)
Dining Chairs (4)
KITCHEN
Tongs (1)
Whisk (1)
Spatula (1)
Ladle (1)
Turner (1)
Wooden Spoon (1)
Pasta Fork (1)
Can Opener (1)
Cutting Knives Set (1)
Baking Dish (1)
Tupperware Set (1)
Pots & Pans (2 each)
Forks/Knives/Spoons (6 of each)
Cereal Bowls (6)
Dinner Plates (6)
Peeler (1)
Strainer (1)
Measuring Spoon Set (1)
Measuring Cup Set (1)
Cheese Grater (1)
Drinking Glasses (6)
Coffee Cups (6)
Utensil Drawer Holder (1)
Frozen Organic Meals
Unprocessed Foods
Cleaning Set
APPLICANCE &
ELECTRONICS
Refrigerator (1)
Stove (1)
Microwave (1)
Toaster Oven (1)
Blender (1)
Coffee Maker (1)
Fan (2)
Flatscreen TV (1)
MASTER BEDROOM
Queen Bed Frame (1)
Queen Mattress (1)
Dresser/Storage Shelf/Armoire (1)
Nightstands (2)
Additional Seating (1) if space permits
Area Rug (1)
Table Lamp (with shade, harp, finials) (2)
Wall Art (4)
Throw Blanket (1)
Throw Pillows with Covers (5)
Queen Sheet Set (fitted & flat) (1)
Duvet/Comforter (1)
Duvet Cover (1)
Standard Size Pillows (4)
Standard Size Pillowcases (4)
OUTDOOR
Patio furniture
BATHROOM
Bathmat (1)
Shower Curtain (1)
Shower Curtain Hook Set (1)
Shower Curtain Rod (1)
Bath Towels (3)
Hand Towels (4)
Waste Basket (1)
Toilet Paper Roll (1)
Soap Holder (1)
Hygiene Products
KIDS BEDROOM
Twin or Full Bed (1)
Twin or Full Mattress (1)
Dresser (1)
Bookcase (1)
Nightstands (2)
Table Lamps (2)
Desk & Chair/Kids’ Table & Chairs (1)
Area Rug (1)
Toy Box (1)
Twin or Full Sheet Set (fitted and flat) (2)
Duvet (1)
Duvet Cover (1)
Standard Size Pillows (2)
Standard Size Pillowcases (2)
Kids’ clothing, shoes, toys, books, puzzles, games & school supplies
FOR KIDS UNDER 18
MONTHS OLD
Crib/Toddler Bed (1)
Crib/Toddler Mattress (1)
Crib/Toddler Sheet (1)
Crib/Toddler Pillow (1)
Crib/Toddler Blanket (1)
Car Seat (1)
Pack and Play (1)
Stroller (1)
Diapers
Clothing
Formula
Baby Hygiene Products
DECOR
Artwork (12-14)
HOME Sign (1)
LOVE Sign (1)
Small Wall Art (4)
Monstera Leaf (1)
White Lily Leaf (1)
Clear Vases (varying sizes) (4)
Colored Vases (varying sizes) (4)
Artificial Potted Plants (1)
Artificial Potted Succulent Set (1)
Set of Décor Bowls (1)
Curtains (single color)
Curtain Rods (8)
Candles
Candle Holders
WELCOME KITS
How we create a home in 90 minutes
A behind the scenes look at how we do it.
© 2023 Copyright A Sense of Home,
A tax exempt charitable organization qualified under
Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Tax ID# 47-3814056.
© 2024 Copyright A Sense of Home
It Starts With Home - A Sense of Home