Understanding Your Rights: A Guide for Young Women in Transitional Housing

Meta Description: Know your rights as a resident in transitional housing. Comprehensive guide to tenant rights, program expectations, privacy protections, and how to advocate for yourself.

Introduction: Knowledge is Power

Moving into transitional housing is a big step toward independence. You’re taking control of your future, developing new skills, and building the foundation for your adult life. But as you navigate this transition, it’s essential to understand your rights.

Knowing your rights helps you:

• Feel confident and empowered in your housing situation
• Recognize when something isn’t right
• Advocate for yourself effectively
• Make informed decisions about your living situation
• Build healthy relationships with program staff
• Prepare for future housing situations

This guide explains your rights as a resident in transitional housing, what you should expect from your program, and how to speak up when you need to. Remember: understanding your rights isn’t about being confrontational—it’s about being informed and empowered.

Your Right to Safe, Clean Housing

You have the fundamental right to live in housing that is safe, clean, and in good repair. This isn’t a privilege—it’s a basic standard that all housing must meet.

What Safe Housing Means

Your housing should have:

• Working locks on all doors and windows
• Adequate lighting, especially in entryways and common areas
• Working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors (tested regularly)
• Fire extinguishers that are accessible
• Clear emergency exits and evacuation plans
• Secure structure (no major damage, holes, or hazards)
• Protection from weather (no leaks, adequate heating and cooling)
• Freedom from infestations (no bed bugs, roaches, rodents)

Safety Also Includes:

• Freedom from physical threats or violence
• Secure storage for your personal belongings
• Emergency protocols you understand
• Staff background checks completed
• Clear policies against harassment and discrimination

What Clean, Habitable Housing Means

Your housing should include:

• Clean, functioning bathroom facilities
• Working kitchen with necessary appliances
• Hot and cold running water
• Adequate heat in winter and cooling in summer
• Proper ventilation
• Regular cleaning of common areas
• Pest control when needed
• Trash removal
• Working electrical outlets and lighting

What to Do If Conditions Aren’t Safe or Clean

First Step: Report It

• Tell program staff immediately about safety or maintenance issues
• Put it in writing (email or written note) so there’s a record
• Take photos if appropriate (leaks, damage, infestations)
• Keep copies of all communications

If Issues Aren’t Addressed:

• Follow the program’s grievance procedure
• Document when you reported it and what response you got
• Ask for a timeline for repairs
• If it’s a serious safety issue, escalate to program leadership

Your Rights Under Texas Law:

• Maintenance issues should be addressed in a reasonable timeframe
• Emergency issues (no AC in Houston summer, no water, safety hazards) should be addressed immediately
• You shouldn’t be punished for reporting legitimate maintenance or safety concerns
• Texas Property Code protects tenants’ right to habitable housing

When to Seek Outside Help:

• If the program refuses to address serious safety issues
• If you’re being retaliated against for reporting problems
• If issues put your health or safety at risk

Resources in Houston:

• Houston Housing Authority
• Lone Star Legal Aid (free legal services): 832-557-3700
• Texas Tenants’ Union
• City of Houston 311 for housing code violations
• Harris County housing authorities

Your Right to Privacy

Even though you’re living in a program with rules and structure, you still have important privacy rights. You’re not in prison or a detention facility—you’re a resident in housing.

Private Spaces

Your Bedroom:

• This is your private space
• Staff should knock and wait for permission before entering (except in emergencies)
• You should be able to lock your door for privacy
• Roommates (if you have them) should respect your space and belongings
• You have the right to decorate within reasonable program rules

Your Personal Belongings:

• Your things are yours
• No one should go through your belongings without permission
• You should have secure storage
• Programs can have rules about prohibited items, but searches should follow clear policies

Privacy Policies to Understand

Room Inspections:

• Programs may conduct room inspections for safety, cleanliness, or prohibited items
• You should receive notice before inspections (except in emergencies)
• Inspection policies should be clearly written
• Inspections should be conducted respectfully

Search Policies:

• Programs should have clear, written policies about when and how searches occur
• Random searches should have legitimate safety justifications
• You have the right to know the policy before moving in

Medical Privacy:

• Your health information is confidential
• Programs shouldn’t share your medical information without your consent (except as required by law)
• Medication management should respect your privacy

Personal Communications

Phone Calls, Text Messages, and Online Communication:

• These are private unless there’s a clear safety concern
• Programs shouldn’t monitor your communications without justification
• You have the right to communicate with friends, family, lawyers, and support people

Mail:

• Your mail is yours and should be given to you unopened
• Programs shouldn’t open your mail

Visitors:

• Programs can have visitor policies for safety
• But you should have the right to have visitors within reasonable guidelines
• Policies shouldn’t isolate you from your support system

Information Privacy

What Programs Can and Cannot Share:

• Your personal information should be kept confidential
• Staff should only share information on a “need to know” basis
• Programs should have clear policies about information sharing
• You should know who has access to your information

Your Right to Your Records:

• You have the right to see your file/records
• You should be able to request copies
• You can correct inaccurate information
• You should know what information is being kept about you

When Privacy Can Be Limited

Legitimate Reasons Programs May Limit Privacy:

• Immediate safety concerns (threat to harm self or others)
• Suspected abuse or neglect (mandatory reporting)
• Court orders or legal requirements
• Program rules about prohibited items (drugs, weapons)

However:

• Even then, programs should use the least intrusive means necessary
• Policies should be clearly explained in advance
• You should understand why privacy is being limited

Your Right to Participate in Decisions

You’re not a child, and you shouldn’t be treated like one. You have the right to participate in decisions about your life, your program participation, and your future.

Individualized Service Planning

You Should:

• Be involved in creating your service plan or case plan
• Have input into your goals
• Understand what you’re working toward
• Have your preferences and choices considered
• Be able to disagree or suggest alternatives
• Review and update your plan regularly

Your Rights:

• Plans should be based on YOUR goals, not just what staff think you should do
• Goals should be realistic and achievable
• You should understand how the program will help you reach your goals
• You should have a say in which services or programs you participate in

Day-to-Day Choices

You Should Have Control Over:

• Your schedule (within program requirements)
• Your personal appearance (hair, clothing, style)
• How you spend your free time
• Your relationships and friendships
• Your education and career choices
• Your healthcare decisions
• How you manage your money
• Your religious or spiritual practices (or choice not to practice)

Programs Can:

• Have house rules that apply to everyone
• Require participation in certain core programming
• Have expectations about contribution to household tasks
• Set boundaries for safety

But Programs Should Not:

• Control every aspect of your life
• Make personal decisions for you
• Punish you for making choices they disagree with (as long as you’re not violating safety rules)
• Force participation in activities not related to program goals

Grievances and Complaints

Your Right to Speak Up:

• You can voice concerns or complaints without fear of retaliation
• Programs should have a clear grievance procedure
• You should know how to file a complaint
• Your complaint should be taken seriously and addressed

What a Good Grievance Process Looks Like:

• Written policy you can access
• Multiple levels (if your first complaint isn’t resolved, you can escalate)
• Reasonable timelines for responses
• Option to have support person present
• Written responses to formal complaints
• Protection from retaliation

Program Rules and Expectations

You Have the Right to:

• Know all program rules and expectations before moving in
• Understand the reasons for rules
• Have rules applied consistently to all residents
• Have input on house rules when appropriate
• Appeal decisions you believe are unfair

Your Right to Freedom from Discrimination

You have the right to be treated fairly and equally, regardless of your identity. Discrimination is not only wrong—it’s often illegal.

Protected Categories

You Cannot Be Discriminated Against Based On:

• Race or ethnicity
• National origin or immigration status
• Religion or spiritual beliefs (or lack thereof)
• Disability or health conditions
• Sex or gender
• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity or expression
• Pregnancy or parenting status
• Age
• Marital status

What Discrimination Looks Like

Direct Discrimination:

• Being treated differently than other residents because of your identity
• Being denied services others receive
• Being subjected to different rules or expectations
• Being harassed or receiving derogatory comments
• Being denied admission or discharged because of your identity

Indirect Discrimination:

• Policies that seem neutral but have unfair impacts on certain groups
• Lack of accommodations when they’re needed
• Creating an unwelcoming or hostile environment
• Failing to address harassment from other residents

Specific Protections

LGBTQ+ Residents:

• Right to have your chosen name and pronouns used
• Freedom from harassment about sexual orientation or gender identity
• Privacy about your identity (you choose who to tell)
• Access to gender-affirming care
• Not being forced into “conversion therapy” or similar harmful practices
• Room assignments that respect your gender identity

Residents with Disabilities:

• Right to reasonable accommodations
• Access to all program services
• Accessible facilities (if you have mobility limitations)
• Modifications to policies when needed
• Not being excluded because of disability
• Privacy about your disability status

Pregnant and Parenting Young Women:

• Cannot be denied housing or services because you’re pregnant or a parent
• Should have access to prenatal care and parenting support
• Reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and parenting
• Not being pressured regarding pregnancy decisions
• Access to childcare support when possible

Residents of Different Faiths (or No Faith):

• Freedom to practice your religion (or not)
• Accommodation of religious dietary needs when possible
• Not being forced to participate in religious activities
• Respect for your beliefs
• Access to religious services if you wish

What to Do If You Experience Discrimination

Document Everything:

• Write down what happened, when, where, and who was involved
• Save any written evidence (texts, emails, notes)
• Identify any witnesses
• Keep a record of how it’s affecting you

Report It:

• Follow the program’s grievance procedure
• Tell a supervisor if a staff member is discriminating
• Contact your social worker or case manager
• Report to program leadership

Seek Outside Support in Houston/Texas:

• Lone Star Legal Aid: 832-557-3700 (free legal help)
• Texas Civil Rights Project
• ACLU of Texas
• Equality Texas (LGBTQ+ advocacy)
• Disability Rights Texas (disability discrimination)
• Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Houston office

Know That:

• Discrimination is never acceptable
• You have the right to fair treatment
• Programs that receive federal funding have additional obligations under federal civil rights law
• Texas law also protects against discrimination in housing
• You cannot be retaliated against for reporting discrimination

Your Right to Education and Employment

You have the right to pursue your education and career goals. Programs should support these goals, not create barriers to them.

Educational Rights

You Can:

• Enroll in high school, GED programs, college, or vocational training
• Attend classes and complete assignments
• Access educational resources and tutoring
• Apply for financial aid and scholarships
• Take time off for educational opportunities

Programs Should:

• Support your educational goals
• Help you access educational resources
• Provide space and time for studying
• Accommodate school schedules in program requirements
• Connect you with educational opportunities

Programs Should Not:

• Prevent you from attending school
• Create barriers through rigid scheduling
• Punish you for educational commitments
• Pressure you to drop out or not enroll

Employment Rights

You Can:

• Seek and maintain employment
• Attend job interviews
• Work hours that fit your schedule
• Save your earnings
• Make career decisions

Programs Should:

• Support your employment goals
• Help with job searching and applications
• Provide flexibility for work schedules
• Celebrate employment successes
• Help with work-related needs (transportation, professional clothing)

Programs Should Not:

• Prevent you from working
• Take your earnings (you may pay program fees, but your earnings are yours)
• Force you to work in specific jobs
• Create barriers through inflexible scheduling
• Interfere with your employment without legitimate reason

Financial Rights

Your Money Is Yours:

• You have the right to earn, save, and spend your money
• Programs can require contributions for housing costs (if explained upfront)
• But programs shouldn’t control all your money or prevent you from accessing it
• You should have your own bank account
• You should make your own financial decisions (with support if you want it)

Programs Should:

• Teach financial literacy
• Support your financial goals
• Help you build savings
• Protect you from financial exploitation

Your Right to Healthcare

Your health is your business. You have the right to make your own healthcare decisions and access the care you need.

Medical Decision-Making

You Have the Right To:

• Make your own healthcare decisions (you’re an adult under Texas law at 18)
• Choose your own doctors
• Access medical, dental, and mental health care
• Consent to or refuse treatment
• Privacy about your health information under HIPAA
• Emergency medical care when needed
• Continue Texas Medicaid coverage until age 26 if you aged out of foster care

Programs Should:

• Help you access healthcare in Houston (Harris Health, Legacy, community clinics)
• Support attending appointments
• Connect you with health insurance and resources
• Provide health education
• Accommodate medical needs

Programs Should Not:

• Make medical decisions for you
• Prevent you from accessing care
• Force you to take medication (with limited exceptions for safety)
• Share your health information without consent
• Punish you for health conditions

Mental Health

Your Rights:

• Access to mental health services
• Choice in whether to seek therapy or counseling
• Privacy about mental health conditions
• Accommodation of mental health needs
• Not being punished for mental health struggles

Support, Not Force:

• Programs can encourage mental health care
• Programs can require it if it’s a condition of a court order or formal agreement
• But generally, programs should support and encourage, not force

Reproductive Health

Your Rights:

• Access to reproductive healthcare
• Choice about contraception
• Prenatal care if pregnant
• Support regardless of pregnancy decisions
• Privacy about reproductive health

Substance Use

Your Rights:

• Access to substance use treatment if you want it
• Not being punished solely for addiction (which is a health condition)
• Support for recovery if that’s your goal
• Harm reduction resources

Program Rules:

• Programs can prohibit active drug/alcohol use in the housing
• Programs can require you to be working on recovery
• But approaches should be supportive, not purely punitive
• Relapses should be addressed with support and additional resources, not immediate discharge when possible

Your Right to Personal Relationships

You’re an adult, and you have the right to choose your relationships—romantic, familial, and friendships.

Family Contact

You Decide:

• Whether to have contact with family members
• How much contact to have
• What kind of relationship you want

Programs Should:

• Support your choices about family contact
• Help facilitate positive family connections if you want
• Respect your decision to limit or not have contact
• Provide resources for family mediation or therapy if desired
• Never force contact you don’t want

Friendships

You Can:

• Choose your own friends
• Maintain friendships from before the program
• Make new friends outside the program
• Communicate with friends however you choose

Reasonable Program Boundaries:

• Programs can have visitor policies
• Programs can address safety concerns about specific individuals
• Programs can have rules about overnight guests

But Programs Should Not:

• Control who you’re friends with
• Isolate you from positive support systems
• Prohibit all visitors or outside friendships

Romantic Relationships

Your Rights:

• You can date and have romantic relationships
• You choose your partners
• You make decisions about your relationships
• You have privacy in your romantic life

Safety Considerations:

• Programs can provide education about healthy relationships
• Programs should address any domestic violence or abuse concerns
• Programs can have policies about overnight guests
• Programs may have rules about residents dating each other (due to community dynamics)

Important:

• You have the right to be in healthy relationships
• You also have the right to end unhealthy relationships
• Programs should support you in developing healthy relationship skills

Your Responsibilities as a Resident

Rights come with responsibilities. Understanding your responsibilities helps you be successful in the program.

Following House Rules

You’re Expected To:

• Follow program rules and expectations
• Respect other residents’ rights and space
• Participate in required programming
• Complete assigned household tasks
• Attend meetings and appointments
• Communicate respectfully with staff and residents

But Remember:

• Rules should be clear, written, and applied consistently
• Rules should have legitimate reasons
• You can ask questions about rules you don’t understand
• You can suggest rule changes through appropriate channels

Respecting Others

You Should:

• Treat staff and other residents with respect
• Respect others’ privacy and belongings
• Keep noise levels reasonable
• Clean up after yourself
• Be considerate in shared spaces
• Address conflicts appropriately

Contributing to the Community

Expectations May Include:

• Participating in house meetings
• Completing chores or household tasks
• Contributing to a positive community
• Supporting other residents (within healthy boundaries)
• Participating in community activities

Communication

You’re Expected To:

• Communicate honestly with staff
• Ask for help when you need it
• Follow through on commitments
• Let staff know about schedule changes
• Address concerns directly rather than letting them build up

Working Toward Your Goals

Your Responsibilities:

• Participate actively in your service planning
• Work toward agreed-upon goals
• Accept support and services offered
• Be open to learning new skills
• Take increasing responsibility for your own life

Understanding Due Process

If you’re accused of breaking rules or face potential consequences, you have the right to due process—a fair procedure before any serious action is taken.

What Due Process Means

Before Serious Consequences (Like Discharge), You Should:

• Know exactly what you’re accused of
• Have a chance to tell your side of the story
• Have evidence or specific examples provided
• Be able to have a support person present
• Receive a written decision with reasons
• Have an opportunity to appeal

Progressive Discipline

For Most Rule Violations:

• Consequences should be progressive (getting more serious with repeated violations)
• First violation = warning and support to change behavior
• Minor issues shouldn’t result in immediate discharge
• Serious or repeated violations = more serious consequences
• Immediate discharge should be reserved for serious safety violations

What Progressive Discipline Looks Like:

1. Verbal warning and conversation about the issue
2. Written warning documenting the concern
3. Meeting to create plan for improvement
4. Additional consequences if behavior continues
5. Discharge only after other interventions have been tried (except for serious safety issues)

When Immediate Action May Be Necessary

Programs May Need to Act Immediately If:

• There’s immediate danger to you or others
• There’s serious violence or threats
• There’s illegal activity posing significant risk
• Your presence creates an emergency situation

But Even Then:

• You should be told why
• You should have an opportunity to respond
• There should be a formal review process
• You should have appeal rights

Appealing Decisions

If You Disagree with a Decision:

• Follow the program’s appeal process
• Put your appeal in writing
• Explain why you believe the decision was wrong
• Provide any evidence supporting your position
• Ask for a review by someone not involved in the original decision

How to Advocate for Yourself

Understanding your rights is the first step. Advocating for yourself effectively is the next.

Know Your Rights

Be Informed:

• Read your resident handbook carefully
• Ask questions about anything unclear
• Know the program’s policies and procedures
• Understand your rights under federal, state, and local laws
• Keep copies of important documents

Speak Up Early

Don’t Wait for Problems to Get Worse:

• Address concerns as soon as they arise
• Small issues are easier to resolve than big crises
• Use “I” statements: “I feel concerned when…” rather than “You always…”
• Be specific about the problem and what you need

Document Everything

Keep Records:

• Save emails, texts, and written communications
• Write down conversations (date, time, what was said)
• Take photos of problems when appropriate
• Keep copies of all important documents
• Note who was present and what happened

Follow Procedures

Use Official Channels:

• Start with your case manager or immediate supervisor
• Follow the chain of command
• Use the grievance procedure if needed
• Put complaints in writing
• Keep copies of everything you submit

Bring Support

You Don’t Have to Advocate Alone:

• Ask a trusted adult to support you
• Bring someone to important meetings
• Consider an advocate or legal support for serious issues
• Connect with other residents for peer support

Stay Calm and Professional

Even When It’s Hard:

• Take deep breaths
• Prepare what you want to say in advance
• Stick to facts rather than emotions (even though emotions are valid)
• Avoid yelling or threats
• Take breaks if conversations get heated

Know When to Seek Outside Help

Get External Support If:

• The program won’t address your concerns
• You’re facing retaliation for speaking up
• Your rights are being violated
• The issue is serious (discrimination, safety, abuse)
• You need legal advice

Resources in Houston/Texas:

• Your Texas DFPS caseworker (if you’re still in Extended Foster Care)
• Lone Star Legal Aid: 832-557-3700 (free legal help)
• Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
• Children’s Law Center (youth advocacy)
• Foster youth advocacy organizations (FosterClub, NFYI)
• Texas Civil Rights Project
• Texas Workforce Commission (employment issues)
• HUD Houston office (housing discrimination)

Special Situations

Some situations require additional understanding of your rights.

If You’re Pregnant or Parenting

Your Rights:

• Cannot be denied housing because you’re pregnant or a parent
• Access to prenatal care
• Support for parenting (education, resources)
• Reasonable accommodations for pregnancy
• Privacy about pregnancy status
• No pressure regarding pregnancy decisions
• Childcare support when possible

What Programs Can Require:

• That you have safe childcare arrangements
• Participation in parenting education
• Meeting your child’s needs
• Safe environment for your child

If You Have a Disability

Your Rights:

• Reasonable accommodations for your disability
• Equal access to all programs and services
• Privacy about your disability status
• Not being excluded or isolated because of disability
• Modifications to rules or policies when needed

Examples of Reasonable Accommodations:

• Extra time for tasks if you have a learning disability
• Physical modifications for mobility limitations
• Communication supports for hearing or vision impairments
• Flexibility in requirements if you have mental health conditions

What’s Required:

• Accommodations must be “reasonable” (not creating undue hardship)
• You may need documentation of your disability
• Program should engage in an “interactive process” to determine appropriate accommodations

If You Identify as LGBTQ+

Your Rights:

• Freedom from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
• Use of your chosen name and pronouns
• Privacy about your identity
• Access to gender-affirming care
• Safety from harassment
• Roommate arrangements that respect your gender identity

What to Do If You Face Discrimination:

• Document incidents
• Report through program channels
• Contact LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations
• Seek legal support if needed
• Connect with LGBTQ+ resources and community

If You’re Undocumented

Your Rights:

• Many rights apply regardless of immigration status in Texas
• Housing discrimination based on national origin is illegal under federal law
• Access to many services doesn’t depend on immigration status
• Privacy about immigration status

Important Considerations in Texas:

• Some public benefits may be limited
• Know your rights if approached by immigration enforcement (ICE)
• Seek immigration legal help from qualified attorneys (not all lawyers handle immigration)
• DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) may be available
• Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) may apply to foster youth

Resources in Houston:

• RAICES Texas (immigration legal services)
• Catholic Charities Immigration Services
• Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative
• Immigrant rights organizations in Houston
• Lone Star Legal Aid (limited immigration services)

When Things Go Wrong

Even in good programs, problems can occur. Know what to do if your rights are violated.

Steps to Take

1. Document the Issue

• Write down exactly what happened
• Note dates, times, locations, and who was involved
• Save any physical evidence
• Identify witnesses

2. Report Internally First

• Tell your case manager or supervisor
• Use the program’s grievance procedure
• Put your complaint in writing
• Request a written response

3. Escalate if Needed

• If internal reporting doesn’t work, go higher
• Contact program leadership
• Reach out to your social worker
• File a formal complaint with oversight agencies

4. Seek External Support

• Legal aid organizations
• Foster youth advocacy groups
• Civil rights organizations
• State licensing or oversight agencies

5. Know Your Options

• You might resolve the issue through dialogue
• You might need to file a formal complaint
• You might need to request a transfer
• In serious cases, you might need to leave for your safety

Red Flags to Take Seriously

Seek Help Immediately If:

• You’re being physically harmed or threatened
• Sexual abuse or harassment is occurring
• Your basic needs (food, shelter, safety) aren’t being met
• You’re being isolated from all support systems
• There’s serious neglect or endangerment
• You’re being financially exploited
• Your rights are being systematically violated

Emergency Resources

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

• Call 911
• Leave if you can do so safely
• Go to a safe place
• Contact your social worker immediately
• Call a crisis hotline

Crisis Hotlines:

• National Runaway Safeline: 1-800-786-2929
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

Your Rights After You Leave

Your rights don’t end when you leave the program.

Alumni Support

Many Programs Offer:

• Continued case management for a period
• Access to alumni events and community
• Ongoing resource connections
• Support when you need it

Your Rights:

• To maintain positive connections if you choose
• To access records and documentation you need
• To not be contacted if you prefer not to be

References and Documentation

You Have the Right To:

• References for future housing or employment
• Documentation of program completion
• Copies of certificates or credentials earned
• Your service records (with some privacy law limitations)

Ongoing Support

You Can:

• Reach back out if you need help later
• Connect with alumni networks
• Access resources even after your time in the program
• Maintain relationships with staff (within appropriate boundaries)

Conclusion: You Deserve Respect

Understanding your rights isn’t about being difficult or demanding. It’s about knowing that you deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.

Remember:

• You have rights, even in structured programs
• Rights come with responsibilities
• Speaking up for yourself is a sign of strength
• Problems should be addressed, not ignored
• You deserve support, safety, and respect

Key Takeaways:

1. Know your rights before you move in
2. Read and understand all policies
3. Ask questions about anything unclear
4. Document concerns when they arise
5. Use appropriate channels to address issues
6. Bring support when you need it
7. Advocate for yourself calmly and clearly
8. Seek outside help when necessary
9. Remember that you deserve to be treated well
10. Your voice matters

Resources

National Organizations:

• National Foster Youth Institute: [resources for youth aging out]
• FosterClub: [peer support and advocacy]
• Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative: [young adult support]

Texas & Houston Resources:

• Texas DFPS (Department of Family and Protective Services)
• Lone Star Legal Aid: 832-557-3700
• Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
• Houston Area Women’s Center (domestic violence support)
• Legacy Community Health (healthcare)
• Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast

Legal Help in Houston:

• Lone Star Legal Aid: LoneStarLegal.org or 832-557-3700
• Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
• Houston Volunteer Lawyers
• Children’s Law Center

Crisis Support:

• National Runaway Safeline: 1-800-786-2929
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Houston Crisis Intervention: 832-416-1177

Rights Information:

• Youth.gov [federal resource on youth rights]
• Texas Foster Youth Justice Project
• Your Texas DFPS caseworker or youth advocate

Get Help

If you have questions about your rights or need support in Houston:

Contact The Pivot Pad:

• Phone/Text: 832-743-5224
• Email: info@thepivotpad.com
• Contact Form: https://thepivotpad.com/contact/

Talk to Your Social Worker: Your Texas DFPS caseworker or social worker can help you understand and advocate for your rights.

Seek Legal Advice: Lone Star Legal Aid and other organizations provide free help for issues like housing rights, discrimination, and more.

About This Guide: This resource was created by The Pivot Pad in Houston, Texas to empower young women in transitional housing. While this guide provides general information about common rights under federal and Texas law, specific rights may vary by program. Always review your program’s policies and consult with legal experts for situation-specific advice.

Keywords: tenant rights Houston, transitional housing rights Texas, foster youth rights, resident rights, housing program policies Texas, young women empowerment, knowing your rights, resident protections, self-advocacy, youth housing rights Houston