Same mission, new name. Companions is now Elevate Spectrum – Read more

Independent Living Starts with your Own Home

We help individuals with autism find and move into supportive housing

Overcoming housing barriers

Moving into a new home is a big milestone, and for individuals on the spectrum, the right support can make the transition a more manageable and even enjoyable experience. 

Elevate Spectrum simplifies the process for you: from applying for rental assistance to setting up your living space, we’re here to help ensure your new home truly feels like your own.

Find a home that fits your needs

Our team can help at every stage:

 

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Get rental assistance

We help you apply for rent subsidies and vouchers to help with housing and related costs.

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Find a home or a roommate

We match you with housing options that meet your individual needs. Find a great home within inclusive communities in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Howard County.

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Settle in

From finding furniture to meeting with your landlord and new neighbors, we make sure the move goes smoothly.

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Get comfortable

It doesn’t stop after moving day: we teach you how to be a good tenant and keep up with maintenance, and even mediate with landlord or neighbors if needed. That way, you can stay in your home for as long as you want.

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A Good Home for a Good Life

At Elevate Spectrum, we believe home is a place to live in dignity and security. A place where individuals can make their own choices and be included in community life, with access to services and additional supports as needed.

Our dedicated team have helped young men and women move into their own apartments since 2018. They go on to self-direct their own lives, and we continue to be inspired by their success stories.

Hear from our participants

FAQs

Can you help me pay my rent?

We don’t pay your rent, but we can help you apply for rental assistance such as the DDA Rent Subsidy, Housing Choice Voucher, and Low Income Tax Credit Housing (LITHC). Keep in mind that these programs have long waitlists.

I am on the rent subsidy waitlist, but need housing now. Can you help me now?

While you wait for rental assistance, we can help you find a job so you can afford to pay the rent yourself.

Family and friends can also make a tax-deductible donation to your ABLE account for your housing expenses.

Alternatively, you could share a home with 2-3 roommates. This not only saves money; living with others can make daily life more manageable and more fun.

How can I get funding for a security deposit and furniture?

We can help you get financial aid for security deposits and furnishings through the DDA Waivers. These are available for people moving from a group home, nursing home, or hospital to their own place.

Furniture banks are also a great place to source second-hand furniture for your new home.

Do you assist if I’m threatened with eviction?

Yes. We connect you to your county eviction prevention agency, and we advocate for you with your landlord while you work to pay down your rent balance. If your landlord takes you to court, we can connect you with a pro-bono attorney to represent you and ensure that your rights are respected in the eviction process.

Not finding the answer to your question? Just get in touch.

Get started in 3 easy steps

1.

Introductory call

Find out more about our services and whether they fit your needs

2.

Housing plan

Our team work with you and your support circle to develop a plan.

3.

Find your home

We help you find your new residence and help you move in.

Navigating Housing Live Q&A for Individuals & Families

Join us live to get answers to all your questions directly from our Housing Specialists.

Housing Supports

During this virtual Q & A Session on Zoom, you will learn about:

  • Getting started with Housing Supports
  • Working with Housing Specialists to navigate rent subsidies and affordable rentals
  • Resources for security deposits, bill payments, home modifications, and roommate matching.
Housing Supports
Housing Supports
Housing Supports