HomeShare Seekers

Seeker Orientation Packet
Seeker Application

For home seekers, ElderHelp will provide the following services:

• Help you decide if you are a good candidate for shared housing
• Register you and learn about your housing preferences
• Refer you to compatible home providers

For all new and all reactivating seekers, all eligibility criteria must be verified before an applicant's registration will be approved. If an applicant raises an eligibility issue that is not clearly addressed by these policies, that issue must be brought to the HomeShare supervisor before approval. Under no circumstances will referrals be given before all eligibility verification is received.

All home seeker registrants must:

• Reside in San Diego County at time of registration.
• Provide two forms of identification, valid photo identification and social security card.
• Provide income verification including: 1) self-report of monthly and yearly income; 2) pay stub if applicant is currently employed; and 3) written verification of any other income benefits (SSI, SSD, TANF, etc.).
• Demonstrate ability to meet living expenses (i.e., food, transportation).
• Demonstrate no alcohol or drug dependence.
• Demonstrate ability to meet own medical or mental health needs.
• Provide references to verify employment history, rental history, and suitability for shared living (known for at least five years).
• Provide doctor referral to verify suitability for shared housing if applicant is receiving SSI or is receiving treatment from a physician or psychiatrist.
• Submit to a criminal background check.

Meet our HomeShare Members

Susan L. is a friendly woman in her early 60's who laughs easily as she talks about her friends, activities, and love of cooking. Though she has faced and overcome several health challenges, she will tell you one of the biggest challenges she has faced lately is that of finding affordable housing.

"Since my kidney transplant, I have been on disability," Susan shared. "It's difficult to find a rental that can fit my budget. I was so happy to have the help from HomeShare."

Susan rents a room from Fred B., a spry 87-year-old gentleman who loves to spend time on his computer. "I am on a fixed income and need some rental income," said Fred. "I don't do too much cooking, so I was happy to offer reduced rent to have Susan cook for the two of us. She seems to enjoy it, too."

This win-win situation is what the HomeShare program is all about.