CD- "What was Shankle Safe Haven like when you first started?"
GL- "Well, it started out as an empty building with an empty, dirt yard." (laughs) "Yeah, it definitely looked a lot different then. When the program started, the initial idea was to provide services to folks who wouldn't traditionally access mental health services-the chronically homeless."
CD- "How were you able to reach out to these folks, at least at first?"
GL- "It was definitely a challenge. Michael Bogs' job at that time was literally to go out and find people-under bridges, under bushes, on the streets, you name it. Wherever he could find them. It took awhile for the program to fill up. There were originally 12 residential beds (there are now 16) that we needed to fill. Once we'd filled those, we began filling the 12 Day Program spaces."
CD- "What were some of the most striking aspects of the program to you?"
GL-"Well, we were one of the first programs to have Peer Advocates. The structure was also unique-we tried to structure it so it wasn't such a huge shock for folks just coming off the streets. The transition can be very difficult. The program was a pioneer of the Housing First Model, really. We gave them (clients) time to adjust to a life indoors, and didn't try to force them to take on treatments and such before they were ready. I remember Susan (Ban, ShelterCare's Executive Director) once said that if we could get just one person to an appointment, well, that's a start."
LW- "How about significant changes over the years?"
GL- "Well, one thing that's changed is that we don't go looking under bridges for folks anymore. It's really become a word-of-mouth program, and we now have a substantial waiting list of over 100 people. It's still unique in that you can self-refer. White Bird also refers people to us. The yard is also no longer empty (laughs). Now we have grass, garden beds, a bike cage and a wonderful deck that clients really enjoy."
CD- "What are some of the greatest rewards for you for working at this program?"
GL- "Definitely seeing people get healthier. We help them access resources a lot of them weren't even aware of before. Some try treatments they haven't before and we see their conditions improve. Some even find housing."
LW- "How did you decide on this career path?"
GL- "Well, I went to school a little later in life. I didn't know exactly what I wanted to major in, but I ultimately went for Sociology. When I looked in the Yellow Pages, under Social Services, ShelterCare was the first listing I saw. It was actually the first place I applied and I got the job. I never thought at the time that I would end up working in mental health, but, you know, I found I truly love it here. I can't imagine being anywhere else."
(A room at Shankle Safe Haven)
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