Diversion Program
Our Diversion Program helps youth and young adults in crisis find safety and stability without entering the shelter system, using flexible funding, personalized case management, and connections to existing support networks.
Phone: 509-228-2423
Diversion Program: Paving Paths to a Stable Future
VOA’s Diversion Program helps youth and young adults avoid entering the homeless response system by quickly identifying safe, stable housing solutions outside of shelter. Using flexible funding and a strengths-based approach, participants tap into existing support systems to create practical, sustainable housing plans tailored to their circumstances.
Diversion is not one-size-fits-all. Through partnerships and grant funding, VOA offers targeted assistance to youth and young adults facing a housing crisis, especially those exiting systems of care or unstable environments. In addition to short-term financial support, participants receive personalized case management, housing navigation, and resource coordination to help achieve long-term stability.
VOA currently operates three key Diversion programs: Homeward Bound, the Homeless Prevention and Diversion Fund (HPDF), and the Youth Diversion Infrastructure Project (YDIP).
Homeward Bound: Reconnecting People with a Place to Call Home
Homeward Bound helps individuals experiencing homelessness in Spokane County relocate to safe, stable housing or family support in other communities. This one-time relocation assistance is available to those with verified housing outside the region but without the means to travel.
Support may include plane, train, or bus tickets; baggage fees; pet travel arrangements; and local transportation to travel hubs. Referrals must come from a verified homeless service provider and include required documentation such as an intake form, release of information, and a confirmed itinerary.
By supporting safe reunification and relocation, Homeward Bound reduces pressure on Spokane’s shelter system while connecting participants to long-term support elsewhere.
** Please note: **Please note: Funding is currently available for Homeward Bound; however, resources are limited and the program may not be available at all times. We will update our website to reflect program availability if funding changes. Please click the button below to fill out the referral form.
Homeless Prevention and Diversion Fund (HPDF): Rapid Support to Keep Youth Housed
HPDF provides flexible financial assistance and housing navigation for youth and young adults ages 12–24 who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Whether couch-surfing, exiting a short-term arrangement, or facing eviction, participants receive rapid support to secure housing within 30 days.
Funds may be used for move-in costs, past-due rent, transportation, car repairs, IDs, or other housing-related expenses. Using a person-centered, problem-solving model, VOA helps participants find creative, achievable solutions that build on their strengths.
Since its inception, HPDF has proven effective in helping youth avoid homelessness and achieve lasting stability.
Youth Diversion Infrastructure Project (YDIP): A Strong Start After Systems of Care
YDIP serves youth under age 25 who are at risk of homelessness after exiting foster care, juvenile detention, behavioral health treatment, substance use recovery, or child protective services.
The program offers early intervention, tailored support plans, and flexible funding to eliminate barriers. Eligible expenses include rent assistance, deposits, travel costs, car repairs, and vital documents needed to secure housing.
By focusing on housing-first solutions and personalized planning, YDIP helps youth establish a safe foundation for adulthood, reducing reliance on shelters and the justice system.
Need Help?
If you are a youth or young adult experiencing a housing crisis, contact our Diversion team for assistance.
(509) 228-2423
1440 N Haven St. Spokane WA 99202
csmith@voaspokane.org