Official definition

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing one or more of the following community housing services: (1) short-term emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or child abuse; (2) temporary residential shelter for the homeless, runaway youths, and patients and families caught in medical crises; (3) transitional housing for low-income individuals and families; (4) volunteer construction or repair of low-cost housing, in partnership with the homeowner who may assist in construction or repair work; and (5) repair of homes for elderly or disabled homeowners. These establishments may operate their own shelter, they may subsidize housing using existing homes, apartments, hotels, or motels, or they may require a low-cost mortgage or work (sweat) equity. Cross-References.