Staff perspectives on the successful families program model: Combining supportive housing with wraparound services for teen families

Providing support to address the systemic barriers that teen families face is a logical step toward improving their health and well-being. One area where teen families face multiple obstacles is accessing safe, secure, affordable housing. This paper describes a unique, innovative model of supportive housing developed in combination with wraparound supports, provided to teen parents in Edmonton, Canada. As part of a larger community-based participatory research and evaluation project, we draw on qualitative data to describe the supportive wraparound housing model that was developed. In particular, we conducted individual interviews and focus groups with a total of 27 staff members from the partner agencies, who provided information about the Successful Families program model. Analysis of interview data resulted in five broad categories that have resonated with our community and academic team as a way to conceptualize and share the work of the program. Categories, which are described in terms of associated subcategories, include: Community, Partnership, Program Principles and Values, Successful Families Program Structures, and Skill and Knowledge Development. Through this work, we aim to promote awareness of considerations for service providers seeking to implement similar services, and expand the limited knowledge base regarding methods for supporting the diverse needs of teen families.