Community Human Services is Addressing the Immediate Housing and Food Challenges Impacting Individuals and Families Across the Greater Pittsburgh Area
Author: Taylor Matulis, Marketing Coordinator
Community Human Services
Founded in 1970, Community Human Services (CHS) believes that safe, affordable housing and nutritious food are fundamental human rights, and we strive to make them accessible to all in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.
As a leading non-profit housing provider, CHS accomplishes its mission through four collaborative departments: Community Programs, Housing, Shelter, and Residential. Each department offers critical 
programs and initiatives to support individuals and families experiencing housing crises or food insecurity. Services include the operation of emergency shelters, housing case management and assistance, rapid and permanent housing, residential programs, community centers and programs, mental health services, and food accessibility.
CHS’ Family Shelter
With the invaluable support of the Allegheny County Medical Society, CHS continues to provide substantial assistance to families staying in CHS’ Family Shelter. Serving an average of 36 individuals annually, this shelter consists of 8 emergency units, each of which are 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhomes. Equip for large families with minors, these units allow the family to stay together while working with a Community Support Specialist to set and achieve goals such as obtaining or maintaining income, applying for social benefits, securing food and clothing, and achieving permanent, affordable housing.
To assist in easing the transition from shelters to independent housing, each family is provided a CHS Welcome Home Kit upon arrival at the shelter. They are thoughtfully designed to provide all the fundamental items necessary for a new home, enabling families to focus on a smooth transition without the financial burden of furnishing their new living space. The kits encompass essential household furnishings and supplies such as beds, kitchen essentials, bath and cleaning products, and other crucial items required for establishing a home. Once a family has secured stable housing outside of the Family Shelter, they will be able to take the supplies from their Welcome Home Kits with them, in an effort to ease the transition into self-sustaining housing.
Recognizing that creating positive memories can significantly impact those navigating housing and food insecurity, CHS staff places a strong emphasis on coordinating positive experiences to leave lasting impressions and foster a greater sense of community. Utilizing the shared courtyard space, CHS hosts monthly events like cookouts and birthday parties, providing opportunities for social interaction and celebration. These gatherings help residents form stronger bonds, crucial for emotional support and creating a supportive network. Such experiences are especially vital for children dealing with the instability and stress of living in a shelter setting, helping them feel valued and cared for, which is essential for their emotional and psychological well-being. CHS also prioritizes activities that address
mental health and offer therapeutic recreational experiences for both parents and children. Sessions are held weekly with Fine Art Miracles including Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Therapy Dog Visits, and Drumming Discovery sessions, all designed to support and uplift the families.
Additionally, within the Family Shelter Program, CHS focuses on group outings that empower families to create joyful memories while strengthening their sense of community beyond the program. These connections can provide additional resources and opportunities, helping families to integrate more fully into the community, promote self-sufficiency, and foster a greater sense of belonging.
CHS is committed to creating positive memories during these challenging times, providing meaningful experiences to help families thrive in the program and remind them of the power of community. Through these efforts, CHS aims to meet the needs and build a foundation for long-term success and well-being. By encouraging social engagement and emotional support, CHS helps families develop resilience and hope for the future. Through collaboration with local partners like the Allegheny County Medical Society and continued innovation within the program, CHS aims to break the cycle of housing and food insecurity, offering families the tools and support they need to achieve lasting stability and prosperity.
Get Involved
Interested in getting involved? CHS has several volunteer opportunities each week! Visit https://www.chscorp.org/volunteer-opportunities-1 to learn more! For more information on CHS, and how to receive or support our services, please visit our website at chscorp.org or email us at [email protected]