Case Management is a multi-step process to ensure timely access to and coordination of services for those who are staying in the shelter and other homeless individuals. The goal of case management is to guide individuals out of homelessness and to promote and support self-sufficiency. The case management process requires the consent and active participation of the clients in decision making and supports their right to privacy, confidentiality, self-determination, dignity and respect, nondiscrimination, compassionate non-judgmental care, cultural competence and quality case management service.
Since November of 2010 our case management program has successfully assisted 238 people in finding permanent housing. This equates to an eight-year placement rate of 51%. The combination of accountability and compassion restores hope to those who have become discouraged in the process of working with traditional social service providers and results in motivation to take steps toward independence. Many of our clients have some barriers which prolong their homelessness; this can be medical and/or mental illness, addiction, lack of income or inability to attain employment. Our Case Managers work with each client to help overcome these barriers and guide clients towards independence. Additionally, case managers work collaboratively with all social service and mental health partners to determine which support services are best for each individual client. The average time for placing our clients into permanent housing is 66 days, but we are pleased to report 94% of our housed clients continue to be stably housed. Our efforts to engage additional landlords while adding another case manager will increase our capacity to help more clients and shorten the length of time for placement into permanent housing.