"Our Heart-Centered Path to Empowering Others"

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What it is:
A clean, safe place to sleep with access to showers, restrooms, and basic hygiene supplies, plus clothing as needed.

 Why it matters:
Safety and rest are the foundation for any healing or progress. When people are exhausted, unsafe, or worried about their belongings, it’s nearly impossible to focus on anything beyond survival.

What it can include:

• Sleeping areas (beds, mats, or cots) with clean linens
• Showers, toilets, and laundry access
• Hygiene kits (soap, toothpaste, feminine products, etc.)
• Secure storage for personal belongings
• Clear rules and trauma‑informed staff to maintain safety and respect

 What it is:
Non-judgmental support for people struggling with addiction, with pathways to recovery and sobriety if they choose.

Why it matters:
Substance use can be both a cause and a consequence of homelessness. Offering support instead of stigma opens the door for real change.

What it can include:

• Referrals to detox, rehab, and outpatient programs
• On-site recovery meetings (AA/NA or other peer support)
• Harm reduction education and resources
• Supportive accountability and encouragement for those in recovery

 What it is:
Regular, reliable access to balanced meals and snacks.

Why it matters:
Consistent, nutritious food supports physical health, mood, and energy. It also communicates care and dignity—people feel valued when their basic needs are thoughtfully met.

What it can include:

• Daily breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
• Consideration for dietary needs or restrictions
• Partnerships with local restaurants, churches, or food banks
• Opportunities for guests to help cook or serve, if appropriate, to build skills and ownership

 What it is:
One-on-one support with a case manager or advocate to help guests identify their goals and navigate resources.

Why it matters:
Homelessness is often tangled with multiple issues—legal problems, trauma, loss of ID, unemployment, and health conditions. A dedicated person helps guests not feel alone in navigating complex systems.

What it can include:

• Intake assessments and goal setting
• Assistance obtaining ID, benefits, and documentation
• Referrals to housing programs, healthcare, legal aid, etc.
• Regular check-ins to adjust plans and celebrate progress

 What it is:
Access to emotional support, counseling, and mental health resources.

Why it matters:
Many individuals experiencing homelessness are also carrying trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, or other mental health challenges. Addressing emotional well-being is critical for long-term stability.

What it can include:

• On-site or referral-based counseling/therapy
• Support groups (grief, trauma, coping skills, etc.)
• Crisis intervention and suicide prevention support
• Staff trained in trauma-informed care, de-escalation, and active listening

 What it is:
Practical classes and coaching aimed at helping guests manage day-to-day life more confidently.

Why it matters:
Even when housing and jobs become available, success is easier when people have the skills to manage budgets, relationships, and daily responsibilities.

What it can include:

• Budgeting and money management
• Cooking, meal planning, and nutrition
• Time management and organization
• Communication skills, conflict resolution, and boundary setting
• Tenant education (leases, landlord communication, house rules, etc.)

 What it is:
Programs that help guests prepare for, find, and keep employment.

Why it matters:
Sustainable income is one of the key factors in exiting homelessness. Many guests may need help rebuilding work history, confidence, and skills.

What it can include:

• Resume building and job application help
• Interview coaching and appropriate clothing
• Connections to local employers and job fairs
• Basic computer and digital literacy training
• Support in maintaining employment (transportation planning, schedule management)

 What it is:
Focused help to find and keep stable housing.

Why it matters:
Shelters are a starting point, not the destination. Guests often need concrete support to locate affordable housing and stay housed.

What it can include:

• Help searching for rental units and filling out applications
• Working with landlords and housing providers
• Assistance in understanding leases and renters’ rights
• Support with move-in costs (through partnerships or grants)
• Ongoing check-ins after move-in to help maintain housing

 What it is:
Access to basic healthcare and pathways to more specialized medical services.

Why it matters:
Chronic health conditions, untreated injuries, and lack of preventative care are common and can keep people trapped in crisis.

What it can include:

• Health screenings and basic primary care (through clinics or partners)
• Referrals to doctors, dentists, and specialists
• Support managing medications and appointments
• Health education (chronic illness management, sexual health, etc.)