Solutions for Change

Solutions for Change solves family homelessness, one family and one community at a time, delivering a permanent solution to family homelessness and deep poverty through social enterprise. Founded in 1999 by social entrepreneurs Chris and Tammy Megison, Solutions for Change works to transforms lives and communities by permanently solving family homelessness.

Record Type: 
Innovative Programs
Start Date: 
Friday, January 1, 1999
Type of Agency/Organization: 
Community-Based Organization
Program Location: 
Vista, California
Geographic Reach: 
Onesite
Clientele/Population Served: 
Homeless Families with Children
Programs/Services Offered: 

Solutions for Change delivers permanent solutions to family homelessness through an innovative academy-like experience where parents of families in the deepest of poverty are equipped with the skills, knowledge and resources needed to reclaim a contributory stake in society through jobs and by ending dependency. The model blends affordable housing, education, health services, servant leadership and workforce training to create a "work therapy" community.

Participants tripled their income in the first year through employment. 74% achieve the 500-day milestone of full-time employment and achieve their own rental housing. For those participants, TANF and Food Stamp benefits decrease by 62% at 500-day mark and 87% by end of engagement contract (1000 days). 850 families and 2200 children have moved permanently out of homelessness and obtained housing and employment, resulting in $51 million dollars in public support savings and $120 million in employment revenue generated into local economy. 

Topics/Subtopics: 
  • Employment
  • Education and Training
  • Supportive Services
    • Health/Behavioral Health Referrals and Supports
    • Housing Assistance
  • Special Populations
    • Homeless Families
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