Day Programs
In October 2007, the agency put into place an “internal continuum of care” which begins with the Engagement Center. The Program requires nothing more than passage through the front door. It is open to anyone homeless or at-risk of being homeless needing assistance. It focuses on building trusting relationships, encouraging and motivating “visitors” to explore positive behavioral change, expand their access to necessary community resources, including, but not limited to, substance abuse and mental health programs. In a home-like atmosphere, the Engagement Center operates during non-traditional hours: Tuesday - Friday, 2pm - 6:30pm and on Saturdays, 8am - 1pm. Its innovative programming provides a hot meal, peer mentoring, a resource center, and referrals for housing and support services.
Cafe Joshua serves homeless men and women Monday – Friday from 8:30 - 1:30pm in a safe supportive environment providing opportunities for independence, employment and self-growth. Cafe Joshua's Kitchen serves a mid-day three course hot meal for Cafe Joshua "Guests" and a hot meal in the evening for Engagement Center "visitors."
The Job Training and Placement Program begins with a ten day job -ready class that helps students learn the vital hard and soft skills needed to re-enter the workforce. An afternoon Learning Center provides additional instruction for clients needing help with literacy and computer skills. Upon graduation, students may apply to one of four apprentice programs offered by the agency or seek employment with the help of volunteer mentors.
Operation JumpStart is an eight-week day program for chronically homeless men with no more than 12 participants at any given time. The program addresses the issues that have caused participants’ homelessness. These issues are addressed during intense daily group and individual counseling.
