Program Implementation

Treasure Island Homeless Development Initiative

Tips to Implementation: With the unique co-location and variety of services on Treasure Island, TIHDI has been able to help homeless and economically disadvantaged individuals address unmet needs. TIHDI has helped not only with housing issues, but also with reunification with children, health care, education, training, and credit repair. TIHDI helps individuals address the immediate crisis. Over time, a sense of normalcy is restored for these individuals. Critical to TIHDI success has been the recognition of the need for flexibility to meet client needs.

Keys to Success:

Close partnerships and relationships with service providers - create a multidisciplinary team that meets regularly.
Client-driven approach - meet clients where they are and not where we want them to be.
Emphasis on reducing harm.
Treatment of whole person - mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually
Peer-based model and staff role modeling for clients.
Staff demonstrating compassion for clients, especially in the initial contact or meeting.
Location of all services on Treasure Island, away from San Francisco - higher retention and success rate; away from past associations, risks, and triggers; gives individuals an opportunity to have a fresh start.
Demystifying how to successfully transition and support individuals in the continuum of care.