Did You Know?

-Mental disorders are common in the United States. An estimated 1 in 4 Americans aged 18 or older suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Even though mental disorders are widespread in the population, the main burden of illness is concentrated in a much smaller proportion. About 1 in 17 American adults suffer from a serious mental illness. In fact, mental disorders are the leading cause of disability in the United States for Americans aged 15-44 years.

(Source-National Institute of Mental Health)      

  

-Chronic homelessness is long-term or repeated homelessness

 of a person with a disability. Many chronically homeless people have a serious mental illness that they attempt to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. Most traditional shelters for this population require sobriety before a person can receive shelter. Recently, a revolutionary model known as the "Housing First" model was introduced. Housing First recognizes that it is nearly impossible for a chronically homeless individual will a mental illness to conquer addiction on their own and that by providing basic needs first, a person's chances of overcoming addiction and moving on to a successful life increase tremendously.

-In 2006, ShelterCare launched its innovative The Inside Program (TIP). TIP is based on the Housing First model and provides apartments and extensive case management to the chronically homeless in the Eugene/Springfield community. TIP currently serves up to 28 people at a time, and enjoys a tremendous level of success. 

ShelterCare staff member plays cards with a client