Today we have another story from LA On The Margins, the collection of stories produced by students at USC where every episode we profile an Angeleno struggling in some way to make it in this city.

This time, a transition home that aims to help those who’ve struggled with their mental health and/or a history of addiction. 

For years, LA county has funded programs to address cycles of incarceration and homelessness that often affect those suffering from mental illness and substance abuse. People would go from one institution —say a jail — right into another, usually with few results. 

Reporter Kira Brenner takes us somewhere different: a place that mixed counselors, therapists, and enrichment opportunities – like art classes – into something that would feel more like a home. 

Take a listen.