The Transitions to Community Living (TCL) program helps eligible North Carolinians with serious mental illness move from institutional settings—or avoid institutionalization altogether—into stable, independent housing with wraparound support.

Veterans Services of the Carolinas proudly supports this statewide initiative by walking alongside individuals during every stage of transition. Through TCL, we ensure each participant has the resources, dignity, and personal agency needed to thrive in a community-based setting.

Who Is Eligible?

TCL serves adults diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI) who:

• Are exiting or at risk of entering adult care homes, psychiatric hospitals, or other institutional settings
• Are Medicaid eligible
• Want to live independently in the community
• Are committed to participating in housing and mental health supports

Eligibility is determined through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS).

What Does TCL Offer?

•  Help Finding and Securing Housing
• Rental Assistance & Utility Deposits
• Peer Support & Case Management
• Behavioral Health Services & Coordination
• Life Skills Coaching
• Transition Assistance (e.g., furnishings, moving support)
• Ongoing Housing Stability Services

Each person receives a customized care plan to ensure success and stability beyond the move-in date.

Institutional care isn’t the only option. TCL promotes choice, recovery, and community integration, improving quality of life while reducing reliance on costly systems. Through this program, individuals gain access to stable housing, emotional support, and tools to rebuild their lives with dignity.