Moving from Crisis To Thriving
The Stair Step System
Experts have determined there is a 5-level process a homeless person takes to move from being in crisis (totally dependent on others) to thriving (self-sufficient).
At the crisis level the participant needs a hand-out (they have no resources to take care of him/herself), but moving forward the participant needs a hand-up by education, motivation, and inspiration to develop the skills to become self-sufficient. This leads to thriving in life.
We have talked about the “secret sauce” program that creates a high percentage of success. For this short blog, we want to share the “The Stair Step” transitional plan to success.
Too many programs want to rescue a person off the streets by providing some type of permanent supportive housing. It seems like the right thing to do and the kind thing to do, but is it?
A homeless individual (depending on how long they have been on the streets) usually needs to gradually move from the street to their own living space. There are many adjustments to be made and beliefs and behavior that needs to change. Success isn’t just about a place to live; it’s about a renewed life-think.
We’ve found a gradual Stair Step Transitional housing plan works well.
Level one can be a low-barrier campground providing a safe environment the homeless individual feels comfortable. It isn’t much different from living on the streets except the participant has access to porta potties, showers, food, coaching, and other resources designed to move forward to the next stair step.
Level two can be an indoor 24/7 shelter with a more aggressive case management program. There are indoor restrooms with showers and laundry facilities. There are at least two meals a day and a plan to address the barriers keeping the person homeless.
Level three can be a tiny house village where each participant has their own living space. There can be community restrooms, showers, and a kitchen where the villagers can make their own food. At this level, the individual has moved from a low-barrier campground and shelter to a “clean and sober” community.
Level four may be studio apartments or shared housing.
At each level, the participant is retraining his/her thinking, belief system, and actions. By the time the participant reaches the apartment level, there is a very high percentage of successfully leaving homelessness behind.
Note: this is a stair-step program. The person has work to do. An escalator system of giveaways doesn’t produce the self-discipline or self-confidence needed for success.