For many households in York County, finding safe, stable housing can feel out of reach, especially in a tight rental market where even small barriers can prevent families from moving forward. Over the past year, YCCAC’s Housing Navigation program has worked alongside individuals and families in 5 York County school districts to help turn that challenge into a path toward stability.

Since May of 2025, YCCAC has worked with school districts in Biddeford, Saco, Sanford, Old Orchard Beach and RSU57 to support more than 100 households in securing safe, affordable housing – each one representing a family or individual able to move out of crisis and into a place they can call Home.

Behind each of these numbers is a story of resilience, and the difference that timely support can make.

For one family, support came during a moment of deep uncertainty. “During a very difficult time when we felt stuck and unsure of what to do, the Housing Navigators guided us in the right direction and gave us hope that things could get better,” one participant explained. That guidance helped the family move into their own apartment and build a stronger foundation moving forward.  

Housing Navigation often provides support at just the right moment, whether that’s covering rental arrears, helping with a security deposit, or guiding families through the search and application process. For one single parent, that support made an immediate and lasting difference: “My rental overdue rent was paid, and I was never made to feel bad about the position I am in… Having someone in my corner through all of this has been so uplifting and motivating!”

What makes this work especially impactful is that it doesn’t stop with housing alone.

Through Housing Navigation, families are also connected to additional supports that help strengthen long-term stability—such as fuel assistance, budgeting education, and coaching. For one family, these connections made all the difference: “We now have a safe and stable home… it gave us stability, peace of mind, and the opportunity to grow.”

At the same time, Housing Navigation strengthens partnerships across the community, working closely with schools, landlords, and local organizations to identify families in need and connect them to support early. These partnerships help ensure that families are not navigating challenges alone.