Program Description

The Rumford Group Homes, (RGH) Inc. operates a transitional housing program in Rumford, Maine.  RGH, Inc. is a 501(C)(3) non-profit agency serving neglected, troubled, and homeless children and low income citizens since 1974. As part of our continuum of care, we offer the Franklin St. Transitional Housing Program for homeless individuals and families in Oxford County, Maine.

The Franklin Street Transitional Housing Program is a three-unit apartment building consisting of: two three-bedroom units and one single bedroom unit.  The three unit apartment building is located on .15 acres in in-town Rumford, Maine.  There is a detached garage, which includes 1 bay for a vehicle and a basement. All apartments were completely renovated in 2005. The building is lead and asbestos free and all units are fully insulated with energy star appliances.

The program houses previously homeless families 18-25 years of age, who will have two years to work toward the goals of permanent housing and self-sufficiency, while being case managed by RGH, Inc.  There is no staff that will directly oversee the tenants.  There may be some contact with tenants by case manager(s) to provide guidance in securing mainstream resources including help in applying for an obtaining income benefits, attending life skills groups, and referrals to needed counseling. 

The major goals of the program are 1) to help families/individuals maintain and sustain safe and affordable housing 2) to secure a stable income and 3) to work on issues that may have led to homelessness.  Children attend the local school district. 

This program was funded by the Maine State Housing Authority. Homeless individuals and families must meet the state of Maine Region II definition of homelessness and provide documentation of this to be eligible for housing. The apartments are funded by project based Section 8 vouchers.  Tenants pay 30% of their income as rent.  All program participants receive supportive services i.e. case management services for the entire length of their tenancy.  This includes regular meetings with tenants at their apartments.  The ultimate goal is self-sufficiency and permanent housing.

Avesta Housing is the agency by which RGH, Inc. receives project based Section 8 vouchers.  Once RGH accepts the applicant, the tenant is screened and tracked by Avesta Housing to ensure they meet Section 8 requirements which is required for residency in the Transitional Housing Program.

Tenants are required to sign a lease which describes the rules and regulations that must be followed to remain in the apartment.  Upon admission, each tenant is thoroughly oriented to the program.  Potential tenants receive a tour of the program and a comprehensive safety orientation. At the end of two years, if tenants have worked on their goals, complied with their lease, program, and resident agreements, they will be able to take the Section 8 Voucher with them. 

For more information or to make a referral please call 369-9439 or 357-5579.