Women in Residence: Making a Lasting Change
Through our residence program, UGM-TC offers spiritual support and practical help for women who need a fresh start. The structured, focused environment encourages residents to grow spiritually while developing critical life and job skills. Each resident is closely monitored, and in many cases, children’s services are an important part of the program.
ADMISSION
Each woman participates in an extensive intake process—about two hours in length—with a 23-page assessment. This information ensures each resident gets needed services, but without duplication from other agencies. With the help of a social worker, the resident agrees to a plan of action—drug rehabilitation, mental health assistance, job education, or other needs.
THE PROCESS
Each person:
- is assigned a case manager, and individualized assessment and care.
- makes (and keeps) appointments to work on their issues.
- regularly attends Alpha, chapel, and meals.
PROGRAM COMPLETION
Clients often encounter and uncover new barriers during their time at the mission; some issues require a lifetime of recovery. Success must be defined individually for each client. In the women’s program, however, if a client secures housing and/or attains an income and moves on to live independently, we consider the client as having completed the program. Not every client can work, so we provide a social worker with specialized training in helping clients qualify for disability or supplemental security benefits.
We try to connect clients with housing options that can best meet their needs. Options include unsubsidized housing for those who are mostly self-sufficient to long-term transitional housing for the homeless, case-managed housing for those with addiction or mental health issues, or even rehabilitative centers for those with precarious health situations. The goal of helping a client find housing is to maximize the chance for successful independent living.
SPECIAL NEEDS AND HOUSING
Women and children: The Union Gospel Mission Family Center is the site of our emergency housing program for women and children. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided each day. Case management services, along with classes addressing barriers to self-sufficiency, are required for those living at the Center.
Senior women: Women who are over age 50 and who are mobile and capable of self-care have a refuge at UGM-TC. For about $210 each month, senior women can rent a private studio apartment with a shared bath at McFadden Hall. Handicapped-accessible rooms are also available. Case management is available for each resident, as well as 24-hour security and on-duty staff manager. McFadden House is operated in compliance with ADA regulations.
Single women: Our programs and services are available to single women of all ages. The Women’s Center is a 32-bed residence for single women, consisting of dorms and six private rooms. The facility provides a safe haven from the danger and uncertainty of the streets.
