Pathways
The Pathways scattered-site apartments programs are designated for individuals who were previously homeless. This program targets a population of homeless with a chronic mental illness who have been resistant to traditional mental health services. Because of this resistance, a lengthy engagement process is usually necessary to build enough trust between residents and staff to move residents toward increased levels of services.
The Pathways program includes eight residents, all of whom meet the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) definition of homelessness. This definition covers individuals and families who reside in temporary shelters or public space that is not fit for human habitation (i.e. streets, parks, public transportation, abandoned buildings, or vehicles), but does not include families who double up in living quarters or individuals in prison or mental health institutions.
Because the targeted population does not generally interact well with other people or respond well to group therapy, housing is provided in studio or one-bedroom apartments scattered throughout the community.
In addition, these individuals tend to be uncomfortable in clinical settings and have difficulty keeping appointments; therefore, services are provided using a flexible, low-key approach either in the individual's home or in a familiar setting.
