Cutz Cares Transitional Living Program

Cutz Cares is a dedicated initiative aimed at addressing the critical issue of homelessness among women who are U.S. Veterans and their children. This effort is rooted in a deep understanding by our organization of the challenges faced by military families, particularly military women, upon completion of their military service obligation. Additionally, our organization has unique qualifications regarding this issue, including prior military service, extensive Department of Defense (DoD) experience, and a commitment to educational and community-driven solutions within our membership which aids in our understanding and compassion for this initiative. The Cutz Cares program is designed to provide not only immediate relief of homelessness for U.S. Veteran women and their children but also long-term, sustainable tools and resources necessary to ensure independent living.
The Issue: Homelessness Among Veteran Women and Their Children Homelessness is a pervasive issue among U.S. Veterans, particularly Veteran women and their children who represent a vulnerable population. The root causes of homelessness among Veteran women and their children are multifaceted. According to recent statistics, Veteran women are twice as likely to experience homelessness upon completion of their military service obligation as compared to their male counterparts. Factors such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), military sexual trauma (MST), lack of affordable housing, unemployment, and difficulty transitioning back to civilian life contribute significantly to this crisis. For many Veteran women, these challenges are compounded by the added responsibility of caring for young children making it even harder to secure stable housing and employment. Many Veterans face difficulty when initially attempting to access entitled benefits and services due to systemic barriers, bureaucratic delays, or general lack of awareness. Delays in receiving benefits and services can lead to untreated mental health issues such as PTSD and depression. Additionally, many Veteran women experience a lack of strong support networks to assist and lend a helping hand during times of need.
The Proposed Activity: Transitional Living and Support Services. Our organization has identified a critical gap in services in the City of Farrell, Pennsylvania, located in Mercer County. The absence of programs specifically designed to meet the unique needs of homeless women and their children, particularly homeless women Veterans transitioning from the completion of military service obligation or impacted by unemployment, highlights the need for a comprehensive Transitional Living Program and Workforce Readiness initiative. In collaboration with our dedicated partners, we are uniquely positioned to address the growing homelessness crisis affecting this vulnerable population. Recognizing the acute challenges faced by women Veterans, Cutz Cares is committed to bridging this service gap by offering a workforce readiness program, safe housing, tailored support, and empowering residents with the skills, tools, and resources needed to achieve long-term self-sufficiency, stability, and independent living.
Key components of the program include:
• Safe Housing: Cutz Cares provides a secure and nurturing environment where residents can focus on rebuilding their lives without the immediate stress of homelessness. The facility accommodates women and their children, offering private living spaces and shared community areas to promote a sense of belonging.
• Workplace Readiness Program: Residents are required to participate in a structured program that includes technical and soft skills training, resume development and interview preparation, and job placement assistance.
• Certification Opportunities: Resident will receive opportunities to obtain certification in high-demand fields such as healthcare (e.g., EMT training and certification), welding, plumbing, electrician, HVAC, and machinery through partnerships like Hope Center for Arts and Technology (HopeCAT).
• Life Skills Development: Workshops on financial literacy, parenting, and interpersonal skills equip residents with the tools needed to maintain stability and independence. These sessions are designed to address the root causes of instability, such as poor money management and lack of parenting support.
• Education and Vocational Training: Opportunities for residents to pursue their GED or High School Diploma Equivalent Program, post-secondary education, or vocational training empower residents to access better career prospects.
• Health and Counseling Services: Residents have access to mental health counseling and substance abuse treatment (if needed), and comprehensive medical care. These services address the underlying trauma and health issues that often impede progress.
• Community and Advocacy: By fostering connections with local organizations and advocating for Veterans’ rights, Cutz Cares creates a supportive network that extends beyond the duration of the program. Partnerships with organizations like the Shenango Valley Urban League, local employers, and local military Veteran advocacy and community groups ensure residents receive ongoing support.
Current Needs and Funding Requirements
To effectively implement and sustain this program, Cutz Cares requires funding and resources in several key areas:
1. Facility Operations: Funding is needed to maintain the Cutz Cares location, including utilities, maintenance, and staffing.
2. Program Delivery: Resources are required to support the Workplace Readiness Program, including EMT training and certification in welding, plumbing, electrician, HVAC, and machinery, training materials, instructors, and certification fees.
3. Support Services: Funding for counseling, healthcare, and childcare services is essential to address the comprehensive needs of residents.
4. Community Partnerships: Additional resources will help strengthen partnerships with local employers, educational institutions, and healthcare providers.

Unique Qualifications
Cutz Cares is uniquely qualified to lead this initiative due to its deep roots in the military community and extensive experience addressing social challenges. Our organization’s membership includes U.S. Veterans who have firsthand knowledge of the struggles faced by military families. This lived military experience, combined with additional organizational expertise gained through service in the Department of Defense, ensures a nuanced understanding of the systemic barriers that Veterans often encounter.
Anticipated Outcomes
The Transitional Living Program is designed to achieve outcomes that lead to sustained improvement in the lives of Veteran women and their children. Key goals include:
• Stable Housing: By providing a safe and supportive environment, the program ensures residents have the stability needed to focus on rebuilding their lives.
• Employment and Income Growth: The Workplace Readiness Program equips residents with the skills and credentials needed to secure meaningful employment, leading to increased income and financial independence.
• Educational Advancement: Access to education and vocational training empowers residents to pursue better opportunities and break the cycle of poverty.
• Improved Health and Well-Being: Comprehensive health and counseling services address physical and mental health needs, promoting long-term stability and resilience.
• Stronger Families: Parenting and life skills workshops foster stronger family bonds and equip residents with the tools needed to create a positive, nurturing environment for their children.
Long-Term Impact
Cutz Cares creates a clear and attainable pathway to sustainability and independent living for homeless Veteran women with children. By addressing the root causes of homelessness such as unemployment, trauma, and lack of access to supportive services, the program empowers families to break generational cycles of poverty and dependence. Through comprehensive support including life skills development, parenting education, mental health resources, and workforce readiness training, participants are equipped to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency. The program also fosters community engagement and advocacy to raise awareness of challenges faced by Veteran families, promoting broader systemic change. With its targeted, trauma-informed approach and deep understanding of military life, Cutz Cares is uniquely positioned to lead lasting change for those who have served and sacrificed.