Service Lines | CRi - Disability-Mental Health

Tenant Support Services (TSS) at CRi: A Partner for Independent Living

Written by CRi | Jun 17, 2025 2:07:00 PM

Imagine the satisfaction of having your own space, the freedom to make your own choices, and the comfort of knowing you have support when you need it. For individuals with developmental disabilities or mental health needs, and for their families, the dream of independent living is often accompanied by questions and considerations. How can my loved one navigate daily life successfully? Where can we find reliable support that respects their autonomy? At CRi, we understand these aspirations and challenges, and that's why we offer Tenant Support Services (TSS) – a vital service line designed to empower individuals to thrive in their own homes and communities.

For our team, our commitment goes beyond just providing services; we strive to be true partners in the journey towards greater independence. Our Tenant Support Services (TSS) are a testament to this commitment, offering a flexible and individualized support system that puts the individual at the center. But what exactly is TSS at CRi?

Defining Tenant Support Services: Your Foundation for Independence

Tenant Support Services (TSS) are designed to provide the essential scaffolding that enables individuals with developmental disabilities or mental health needs to live successfully and comfortably in their own homes. Unlike more structured residential programs, TSS focuses on empowering individuals within their chosen living environment, whether it's an apartment, a rented house, or a home they own. Our TSS program is built on core principles of individualization, independence, respect, and community integration. We understand that each person's journey is unique, and our support is tailored to meet their specific needs and goals. 

This might involve developing crucial daily living skills, connecting individuals with vital community resources, or providing the necessary problem-solving support to navigate life's challenges. Importantly, our Virginia-based TSS program extends our reach across the Commonwealth, ensuring that more individuals can access this crucial support. We act as a collaborative partner, working alongside the individual to build a life of greater autonomy and fulfillment.

Who Can Benefit from TSS? Charting the Course to Independence

If you or a loved one is an adult with a developmental disability or a mental health need with the desire to live independently or maintain their current independence, CRi’s TSS program could be the key to unlocking that potential. Our services are designed for individuals who may require varying levels of support to successfully manage their daily lives in their own homes. This includes those who might need assistance with budgeting, medication reminders, accessing community services, or developing essential life skills. 

Whether you're exploring options for the first time or seeking to enhance existing independent living arrangements, understanding eligibility for independent living support or seeking help living alone is a crucial first step. While specific eligibility criteria may involve factors such as the level of support needed and available funding sources, we encourage anyone who believes they could benefit from personalized resources to reach out to CRi for a confidential discussion. We're here to help you explore your options and determine if our TSS program is the right fit.

TSS vs. Residential Programs: Understanding Your Options for Support

It’s important to understand that Tenant Support Services are just one of the ways CRi supports individuals with disabilities. You might be familiar with other options like Supported Living or Group Homes. So, what are the key differences? The primary distinction lies in the living arrangement. TSS supports individuals in their own homes, fostering a greater sense of autonomy and control over their living environment. In contrast, residential programs like Supported Living and Group Homes typically provide a shared living space with more consistent, on-site support.

While these programs offer valuable care, TSS is specifically designed for those who desire and are capable of living independently with tailored support. The level of support in TSS is flexible and adjusted to the individual’s evolving needs, promoting maximum self-direction. Choosing between these options often comes down to the individual's preference for independence and the level of support required to maintain a safe and fulfilling life.

A Day in the Life with TSS: Real Support in Action

To truly understand the impact of TSS, let’s look at some practical examples of how our support can make a difference in someone’s daily life. 

Let’s meet Sarah and Mark:

Imagine Sarah, who lives in her own apartment and receives support through the CRi TSS program. Her TSS worker might assist her with creating a monthly budget and paying her bills on time, ensuring her financial stability. They might also help her schedule and remember medical appointments, ensuring her health needs are met. 

For Mark, who is working on connecting more with his community, his TSS worker could help him navigate public transportation, find local recreational activities, and even practicesocial skills. Other examples of support include assistance with meal planning and grocery shopping, reminders for medication, support in developing household routines, and guidance in accessing other essential community resources. 

The effectiveness of any support service lies in its ability to address real-life needs in a meaningful way. Our TSS program is designed to be precisely that – a practical and personalized resource that empowers individuals to navigate their daily lives with greater confidence. For individuals seeking disability support services via the DBHDS or looking for help living alone with mental health concerns, these practical supports can be invaluable.

How TSS Empowers Choice, Respect, and Independence in Your Own Home

At its core, CRi’s Tenant Support Services are about empowering individuals. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live as independently as possible, with dignity and respect. TSS achieves this by placing the individual's choices at the forefront. Our support plans are developed collaboratively, ensuring that the individual has a voice in the services they receive and how they are delivered. By providing tailored support within their own homes, we foster a sense of ownership and control, which is fundamental to building self-reliance. This approach not only respects the individual's autonomy but also helps them develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate their lives more independently. For families, knowing that their loved one is receiving personalized support that honors their choices and promotes their independence can provide significant peace of mind.

Partner with CRi for Independent Living

If you or a loved one is exploring options for independent living support, we encourage you to learn more about CRi's TSS program. We are here to answer your questions and help you determine if our program is the right fit. To inquire about the CRi TSS program and how we can partner with you on the journey to greater independence, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can visit our website for more information or contact us directly to speak with a member of our team. 

We are committed to providing personalized resources for IDD and mental health concerns in Northern VA and Richmond, and are ready to discuss how our services can make a positive difference in your life or the life of your loved one. 

 

Take the first step towards greater independence today – we're here to partner with you.