Floretta’s Foundation is a Philadelphia-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing transitional housing support to individuals and families experiencing housing instability. We are a bridge program—not a shelter—designed to help people move from crisis toward lasting stability and independence. Our model combines safe, stable housing with individualized case management, life-skills support, and connections to community resources. We believe every person deserves dignity, respect, and the practical support needed to build a stable life.

We primarily serve Philadelphia and the surrounding counties, including Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware, and Lehigh Counties. If you are unsure whether you are within our service area, please contact us — we are happy to help connect you with appropriate resources wherever you are located.

Emergency shelters provide immediate, short-term safety. Floretta’s Foundation offers something different: a longer-term, home-like environment with ongoing, individualized support. Residents live in shared homes in real neighborhoods — not institutional settings — and receive structured case management designed to address the root causes of housing instability. Our goal is not just to provide a roof, but to walk alongside each resident as they build the skills, connections, and resources needed for permanent, independent housing.

Our programs are open to adults — including individuals and families — who are experiencing housing instability or homelessness and are ready to actively work toward stable, independent housing. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. We look for people who are committed to participating in our support services and following the program guidelines. We serve people from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

You can apply by joining our waitlist through the Waitlist page on this website, or by contacting us directly. The application process includes a brief intake form and an initial conversation with a member of our team to learn more about your situation and goals. We approach this process with care and without judgment — our only goal is to understand how we can best support you.

Waitlist times vary depending on current availability and program capacity. We do our best to communicate realistic timelines and keep applicants informed of their status. While waiting, our team can help connect you with other community resources that may be available to you in the meantime. We encourage you to stay in contact with us and to keep your contact information up to date.

After you submit your application, a member of our team will reach out to confirm receipt and schedule an intake conversation. During this conversation, we will learn more about your current situation, your strengths, and your goals. If you are accepted into the program, you will be placed on our waitlist and notified as soon as a placement becomes available that is a good fit for you. We will work with you to prepare for your move and ease the transition into your new home.

Shared housing means living in a home with other residents who are also working toward stable, independent housing. Each resident has their own private space, while common areas such as the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms are shared. This model is intentional: it fosters a sense of community and mutual support, reduces costs, and helps residents build the everyday life skills that are essential for maintaining their own housing long-term. Our shared homes are located in real neighborhoods and are designed to feel like a home, not a facility.

All residents are expected to follow a set of community guidelines designed to create a safe, respectful, and supportive living environment for everyone in the home. These include requirements around maintaining sobriety (where applicable to your program track), keeping your personal and shared spaces clean, participating in scheduled case management meetings, paying any required program contributions on time, and treating housemates and staff with respect. A full copy of the house rules is provided during the intake process and reviewed before move-in. We believe clear expectations benefit everyone and help our homes remain welcoming spaces.

You can expect a structured, supportive environment where you will have privacy in your own room and community in shared spaces. You will have regular check-ins with your case manager, opportunities to participate in life-skills workshops and community activities, and a team that is genuinely invested in your success. Living with others can take some adjustment, and our staff are here to help navigate any challenges that arise. Most residents find that the community aspect of shared housing becomes one of the most meaningful parts of their experience with us.

Residents receive individualized case management tailored to their specific needs and goals. Our support services include help with goal-setting and housing plans, connections to employment resources and job readiness programs, assistance accessing benefits and community services, life-skills workshops (budgeting, cooking, household management), mental health and wellness referrals, and ongoing advocacy. We partner with a network of local organizations to ensure our residents can access the full range of support they may need on their journey toward independence.

Length of stay varies based on each resident’s individual circumstances, goals, and progress. Transitional housing is designed to be temporary — a purposeful stepping stone, not a permanent solution. We work collaboratively with each resident to develop a realistic housing plan and timeline. Our focus is always on helping people move forward as soon as they are ready, while ensuring that transitions are thoughtful and sustainable. Extensions may be available in certain circumstances and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Beyond housing, we focus on building the foundations that make independent living sustainable. Your case manager will work with you on a personalized plan that may include income and employment support, credit and financial literacy, rental application assistance, connections to permanent housing opportunities, and help building your community support network. We also offer transition planning as you approach the end of your program stay, so that moving out feels like a graduation, not an ending.

You can make a financial donation through our Donations page on this website. We accept one-time and recurring gifts. Every dollar contributed goes directly toward supporting our residents and sustaining our programs. Floretta’s Foundation is a registered nonprofit organization, and your donation may be tax-deductible — please consult your tax advisor for details.

Donations fund the day-to-day operations of our transitional housing program, including housing costs, case management services, life-skills programming, and resident support needs. We are committed to responsible stewardship of every gift we receive and work to maximize the direct impact of donations on our residents’ lives. For information on how funds are allocated, please contact us at info@florettasfoundation.org.

Yes! In-kind donations of household goods, furniture, clothing, and personal care items are often greatly appreciated. Because our capacity to accept donations varies, please reach out to us before dropping off items so we can confirm current needs and coordinate logistics. We are also open to conversations about property donations or larger asset gifts — please contact us directly to discuss.

We welcome volunteers who share our commitment to housing stability and community support. Volunteer opportunities may include facilitating workshops, mentoring residents, supporting community events, or providing professional services such as legal, financial, or health consultations. To learn more or express interest, please contact us at info@florettasfoundation.org and we will connect you with our volunteer coordinator.

The best way to reach us is by email at info@florettasfoundation.org or by using the contact form on our Contact Us page. We aim to respond to all inquiries within two business days. If you are in immediate need of housing support, we also encourage you to contact your local emergency shelter or call 211, Pennsylvania’s social services helpline, which can connect you with immediate resources while you await placement.

If you are a case worker, healthcare provider, community organization, or concerned community member seeking to refer an individual or family to our program, please reach out to us at info@florettasfoundation.org with the referral details. With the consent of the person you are referring, we will follow up directly to begin the intake process. We value partnerships with organizations across Philadelphia and the surrounding counties and are always open to building new referral relationships.