Submit a digital audio or transcribed version of the interview to Blackboard. What’s your role as an outreach coordinator, and how do you engage with the homeless in Indianapolis?

Submit a digital audio or transcribed version of the interview to Blackboard. What’s your role as an outreach coordinator, and how do you engage with the homeless in Indianapolis?

Adeline: As CHIP’s Outreach Coordinator, I am responsible for aggressively linking homeless people with the services and resources they need by developing connections with them. I engage in case management, street outreach, and support, and help navigate the homeless service system.

1. What challenges do you face in helping the homeless, and how do you address them?

Adeline: Establishing rapport and trust with people who may have undergone trauma and have a mistrust of care providers is one of the biggest hurdles. We combat this by approaching with empathy, paying attention, and continually being present to offer assistance. Building trusting and respectful relationships takes time.

1. Do you have any positive outcomes or success stories resulting from the outreach efforts of CHIP?

Adeline: Recently, our quick rehousing program assisted a homeless person in finding stable housing. They were able to move from being homeless to having a secure home by receiving financial aid, case management help, and access to neighborhood services. This success story demonstrates the results of our coordinated efforts.

1. In your experience, what are some of the critical factors contributing to homelessness in the state, and how are those factors addressed?

Adeline: Lack of affordable housing, unemployment, and restricted access to social services are three significant causes of homelessness. To provide complete support, including housing aid, employment training, and healthcare access, CHIP addresses these problems by advocating for legislation that promotes affordable housing, working with employment agencies, and forming relationships with service providers.

1. How does CHIP collaborate with other organizations and the community to prevent and end homelessness in Indianapolis?

Adeline: We think that fighting homelessness calls for a team effort. CHIP works with service providers, governmental organizations, and the community to align resources, coordinate initiatives, and push for structural reforms. We participate in interagency partnerships, work on community planning projects, and collaborate with others to prevent and reduce homelessness in Indianapolis.

References

FENWICK, T. (2021, July 28). Homelessness in Indy at a 10-year high. Indianapolis Recorder. https://indianapolisrecorder.com/homelessness-in-indy-at-10-year-high/

Lynne Walsh. (2016, January 21). Homelessness Programs and Resources | SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Samhsa.gov. https://www.samhsa.gov/homelessness-programs-resources

Op/Ed: Indianapolis’ plan to reduce homelessness misses the mark. (n.d.). The Indianapolis Star. Retrieved May 26, 2023, from https://www.indystar.com/story/opinion/2022/06/17/indianapolis-plan-reduce-homelessness-misses-mark/7581493001/

Plans to end homelessness. (n.d.). Indianapolis Continuum of Care. Retrieved May 26, 2023, from https://www.indycoc.org/plans-to-end-homelessness.html#:~:text=Indianapolis%20Community%20Plan%20to%20End%20Homelessness&text=The%20goal%20of%20the%20five