Friendship Place
Friendship Place provides housing and support services for people experiencing homelessness in the Washington DC region, using a Housing First model to prioritize permanent housing. They offer various programs, including medical care, job placement, and specialized services for veterans.
Services
Friendship Place offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support individuals experiencing homelessness in the Washington DC region. Their services include Permanent Supportive Housing, short-term housing facilities, job placement services, and street outreach. Additionally, Friendship Place operates a drop-in center that provides food, personal hygiene supplies, clothing, and access to medical and mental health services. The organization also manages a free clinic offering medical and psychiatric care.
Housing First Model
Friendship Place employs a Housing First model that prioritizes providing permanent housing to individuals experiencing homelessness, regardless of their employment, sobriety, or incarceration history. This approach is based on the principle that stable housing is a crucial first step in addressing other issues such as joblessness or substance abuse. By securing housing first, Friendship Place aims to create a stable environment for individuals to improve their overall well-being.
Programs for Veterans
Friendship Place runs specialized programs aimed at veterans experiencing homelessness. These programs include rapid rehousing, which quickly secures permanent housing for veterans, as well as homeless prevention services designed to keep veterans from becoming homeless. By focusing on the unique needs of veterans, Friendship Place provides targeted support to this vulnerable population.
Community Engagement
The operations of Friendship Place are supported by donations, including in-kind gifts and volunteer efforts from the community. The organization partners with local landlords to secure housing options for clients, ensuring a steady supply of available accommodation. Community engagement is a key aspect of their operational model, leveraging local support to extend their reach and impact.
Advocacy and Policy Influence
Friendship Place actively engages in advocacy efforts to influence policy and increase funding for homelessness prevention and solutions. By collaborating with policymakers and stakeholders, the organization works to implement systemic changes that can reduce homelessness in the Washington DC region. Their advocacy focuses on creating long-term solutions and securing resources needed for comprehensive homeless support services.