In general, HSS serve adults who are homeless, many of whom are chronically homeless; who are or are believed to be seriously mentally ill or emotionally disturbed. These individuals are living in shelters, on the streets, and in other places not meant for human habitation such as parks, under bridges and alleys. HSS identify and engage individuals who are mentally ill and homeless with the primary goal of linking individuals to appropriate services including the DMH service system. There are three types of HSS: Outreach and Engagement; Stabilization; and Housing First Safe Haven Programs are a type of Stabilization Service. Safe Haven Programs are transitional in nature, provided in a fixed site which is staffed and designed to promote residential stability. The core principles of Safe Haven include: Access to safe, stable housing that provides a safe environment; Engagement strategies and a Harm Reduction approach that supports on-going engagement or reengagement in treatment; Services designed to support transition to community-based housing, including connections to mental & physical health services as appropriate; Emphasis on recovery and stability, promoting improved quality of life, overall health, mental health, and long-term housing retention; and A Person-Centered approach that emphasizes the Individual’s right to self- determination, dignity, and respect.
