3Keys has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the William Josef Foundation to enhance and expand critical supportive services for approximately 350 adults facing mental illness and homelessness across metro Atlanta. This funding will strengthen 3Keys’ permanent supportive housing (PSH) model, which prioritizes care for the most vulnerable individuals—those experiencing significant barriers to stable housing.

“This grant is a game-changer for our residents and the services we provide,” said Scott Walker, President/CEO of 3Keys, Inc. “With the support of the William Josef Foundation, we can expand our team and offer even more comprehensive, personalized care to those who need it most. Our goal is not just to provide housing but to create lasting stability and dignity for every individual we serve.”

3Keys currently manages 477 permanent supportive housing units across six properties, where residents receive personalized, wraparound support services on their path to stability. Housing Support Specialists work closely with residents to develop individualized service plans tailored to their unique needs.

Through a holistic approach, staff and partners provide essential services, including case management, service coordination, peer support, life skills training, counseling, eligibility assistance, transportation aid, food assistance, and referrals to local providers. By integrating affordable housing with healthcare and customized support, 3Keys removes critical barriers and helps residents achieve lasting success.

Historically, 3Keys has delivered supportive services through partnerships with local providers. In 2022, the organization took a pivotal step by hiring in-house case management staff at its largest property, Welcome House, a 209-unit residence. This shift enabled 3Keys to serve 30% more residents successfully, with at least 80% actively participating in available services.

Building on this proven model, the William Josef Foundation grant will allow 3Keys to expand its in-house staff across three additional properties: Rosalynn Apartments, Phoenix House, and Presley Woods. New hires will include case managers and an activities coordinator / peer support specialist, increasing the level of personalized care available to residents.

3Keys consistently maintains a housing stability rate of 85% or higher, surpassing the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) national benchmark of 80%. By expanding staffing and services across all properties, the organization aims to sustain—and potentially exceed—this high standard.

While 3Keys receives funding from HUD’s Continuum of Care program, these funds primarily support rental assistance and do not cover essential supportive services. The William Josef Foundation grant will provide dedicated funding for permanent supportive housing services, ensuring that residents continue to receive the care and assistance they need.

According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, permanent supportive housing is “a cost-effective solution to homelessness for those with the most severe health, mental health, and substance abuse challenges.”

3Keys serves single adults, veterans, and returning citizens over the age of 18 from diverse racial, ethnic, and gender backgrounds. Many residents face dual diagnoses of mental illness and substance use disorders, developmental disabilities, and/or HIV/AIDS. Often arriving from hospitals, behavioral health institutions, emergency shelters, correctional facilities, or the streets, these individuals benefit from 3Keys’ comprehensive programming, which integrates housing, support, and services.

With the support of the William Josef Foundation, 3Keys is poised to make an even greater impact—ensuring that more individuals have the resources, care, and stability they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and self-sufficiency.