Program Description:

The funds were to renovate three community rooms to be used day and night for women and children. Prior to renovations, the community rooms were institutional spaces used to house storage goods or filled with old furniture. Now that formerly homeless people are allowed to live full time in the San Diego Rescue Mission, as opposed to having to be on the street from 8 am to 5 pm, these spaces needed renovations to allow for a relaxed, residential feel. They are to be used for rest, playing with kids, classes, therapy/counseling, cooking, nutrition courses, art therapy, music therapy, special events, etc. Rooms are trauma-informed – softer lighting, specific colors that are aesthetically pleasing, and a soothing, calm atmosphere for people who’ve experienced trauma. Having these ‘day spaces’ provided more dedicated time to navigate the complicated homeless resources and government agencies that may be closed at night.

Results:

The activities and accomplishments of the project followed the proposed plan. Three community rooms were renovated to provide more comfortable space for individuals in the program. With the facilities communicating calm, recovery, and quality, women & children are more likely to stay the full 30 days and consider San Diego Rescue Mission’s one-year program. Having a trauma-informed space allows staff to build a trusting relationship and determine person-centered care. 

Future Plans:

The rooms are being very well-maintained. The San Diego Rescue Mission has found that when people are given nice things and nice environments in which to spend time, they take pride in those environments and work to care for them.