Building Bridges Program

Building Bridges serves participants who have moved into their own homes, so case managers can work with participants in their own living environments. Case managers provide advocacy with landlords as needed, and support program participants in becoming responsible tenants. If concerns arise, case managers address problems directly. For example, if a participant relapses with a drug or alcohol addiction, a relapse plan is put in place. If a mental health need is going unaddressed, the case manager works closely with the participant to re-establish services and/or medication.

Most individuals and families leaving homelessness are overcoming multiple barriers, and often have minimal support. Case managers with the Building Bridges Program provide supportive services to program participants to help them maintain permanent housing and achieve their goals. At least 75% of participants have at least one disability, including a mental health diagnosis, alcohol or drug addiction, and/or HIV/AIDS. Program outcomes show that 80% are participating in recovery and/or mental health treatment to maintain sobriety and stability.

Many people coming from homelessness struggle with life skills such as parenting and budgeting. Case managers work closely with participants to evaluate their needs and strengths, and help them develop case plans that address disabilities and increased self-sufficiency. The case manager relationship can play a vital role in participants’ lives, providing both support and consistency.

Case managers immediately address concerns that could cause participants to become homeless. They also assist with both direct support and with referrals for education/training, budget and credit repair, parenting, and community involvement. The program works with all participants to help them achieve stability, address setbacks, and move forward.

“Building Bridges has done a lot for me.  My case manager has helped me deal with things from my past so that I can learn to move forward in the future.  They have been supportive through my current health problems.”