Homelessness among the chronically ill drives significantly higher health care costs and exacerbates chronic illnesses by increasing exposure to trauma and high-risk behaviors.

Children's Institute, Inc. (CII) is a multi-service organization in Los Angeles, CA that combines clinical mental health and other supportive services to meet the needs of children and their families who have been affected by trauma, such as abuse, domestic violence or violence in the community. The model combines clinical services, parent & guardian programs, and nonclinical youth development activities, including early childhood education.