FAQS
TAY Shelter
Q: WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO STAY AT THE GOOD SEED SHELTERS?
A: Young men who are 18-25 years old (i.e. Transition Aged Youth or “TAY”), homeless, previously, currently, or in need of support with their mental health. We also accept a small number of TAY with families including children. Soon, we hope to provide housing for women as well, so check back with us or connect with us via Twitter and Facebook to hear our latest updates.
Q: HOW LONG CAN I STAY AT THE SHELTER?
A: Our shelter is temporary, emergency housing and the goal is to place you in permanent housing as soon as possible. Because of that, our clients may stay up to 60 days without an extension, and longer if needed.
Q: HOW MANY MEALS DO YOU PROVIDE?
A: You will receive three healthy meals every day, along with snacks throughout the day..
Q: WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?
A: Our shelter is located in South Los Angeles. We are easily accessible by public transportation and we are close to many local service providers. Due to privacy concerns, we do not share the exact location with the public.
Q: WILL I RECEIVE HELP WHILE I’M AT THE SHELTER?
A: All residents receive extensive case management, supportive services, group counseling and help with obtaining basic needs, including clothes and supplies. We also help our clients enroll in school, obtain financial aid, and register for supportive service agencies at the local schools and community colleges. We will also help you find and secure a job or work placement. We want to work with you to help you achieve your goals.
Construction Apprenticeship Program
Q: WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM?
A: Anyone who is or was a client with Good Seed. We also accept referrals from service providers, community organizations and churches for young men and women who may be homeless or at risk of homelessness. If you have the desire and you want to learn and earn, we encourage you to apply.
Q: HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM?
A: TAY and others will spend up to a year learning and gaining on the job experience. We help each person to identify their skills and strengths and where they can contribute the most and earn the most money.
Q: WILL I MAKE MONEY?
A: Yes. After your initial application process, screening and orientation, each CAP participant can begin earning wages as they begin gaining on the job experience in all aspects of the construction trade starting with location prep and shut down.
Q: DO I HAVE TO GO TO SCHOOL?
A: Each CAP component requires a minimum number of hours of instruction. Those who are motivated to earn higher wages and work with a construction firm will be encouraged to take relevant classes at nearby Los Angeles Trade Tech College. We hope to secure a partnership with LATTC by Fall 2015.
Q: HOW DO I APPLY?
A: Please give us a call at 323-758-5433 and speak to our program director, Russell Edmond for information on the next training session. Blueprint Apprentice Program (BAP)
Q: CAN I LEARN HOW TO DO BLUEPRINTS?
A: All eligible TAY who are clients or former clients of Good Seed are eligible to participate in the learning program. We also accept referrals from service providers, community organizations and churches for young men and women who may homeless or at risk of homelessness. If you have the desire and you want to learn and earn, we encourage you to apply.
Q: DO I HAVE TO KNOW HOW TO DRAW?
A: No, but you do need to have a good eye for detail and be able to work with computers. Using the latest in blueprint technology, we construct precise documents that allow clients to visualize their projects in 3D with real time adjustments and detail. With a generous donation from Chief Architect, we are able to provide our students with the latest in blueprint design tools.
Q: WILL I MAKE MONEY?
A: Yes. Once you have completed the necessary training and apprenticeship hours, you will be eligible to assist our licensed contractors with real jobs for real clients. Eventually, those who are highly skilled can earn their license and begin contracting with clients as extra or their primary income.
Q: HOW DO I APPLY?
A: Please call (323)758-5433 and speak to Russell Edmond, Program Director about the program.
Good Seed Construction Hire Us!
Q: IS GOOD SEED CONSTRUCTION (GSC) A NONPROFIT?
A: Yes, GSC is a subsidiary of Good Seed Community Development Corporation, a 501c3 public benefit corporation.
Q: HOW DOES GSC WORK?
A: We are a licensed contractor and community developer. Our CEO, Jonathan Thompson, has more than 10 years’ experience in the construction industry including licenses in blue print design, real estate and commercial/construction financing. With his vast network of subcontractors and southern California suppliers, the GSC team is well equipped to provide high quality, economical service for your building needs. On every job, GSC licensed contractors work with our youth apprentices to get the job done. You receive all the same quality services that you expect from any contractor, however now you know that your funds are helping to support an enterprising young person achieve their dreams of becoming an economically independent and successful member of society.
Q: ARE MY PAYMENTS TAX DEDUCTIBLE?
A: As a 501c3, all donations to Good Seed are tax deductible, however payment for services are not tax deductible under federal law. We appreciate all donations, which help us defray the cost of housing, training and support for our youth. Please click HERE to donate to our cause.
Q: HOW DO I HIRE GSC?
A: Please call our business line at 323-758-5433 A representative will follow up with you within 2 business days to learn more about your building needs. Thank you for supporting Good Seed!