michelle,
I commend you for trying to think of ideas on how to help others as well as yourself.
Starting a boarding house is a matter of getting the right licenses and permits from the city or county in which you live. After passing all requirements, sit down and decide all of the important factors, like rent and rules. This will be a business, so be prepared to keep good books. And remember to treat it like a business. A business of your own is a 24 hour a day responsibility.
I wsh you luck in finding the answers you are looking for.
Kindly,
Kitt