Hello,
In one of my earlier posts, I briefly touched on a series of surveys we are currently conducting. The results of these surveys are intended to change relations between city services, particularly the Phoenix Police Department and individuals with mental health issues. Last week, we revisited Lodestar Day Resource Center. The services provided by this non-profit organization are extensive: a Post Office, Legal Services, a transitional housing program and a "bag and tag"which provides storage facilities, including lockers for individuals to keep their belongings.
When individuals are homeless, everyday activities become obstacles. Homeless individuals face barriers in obtaining housing, finding employment and staying safe. In order to seek employment, applicants (usually) require a mailing address. This, coupled with mental illness, hinders homeless individuals from finding employment.
Lodestar Day Resource center is a transformational service that empowers individuals to end their homelessness. Shelters provide a temporary solution to a social issue that has deeper roots than housing alone. The organization recognizes the complexities of homelessness and seeks to embrace diversity and collaboration amongst clients. Ending homelessness requires a societal shift, by engaging the community to support actions to end/prevent homelessness may lead to holistic change.
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