District of Columbia: Christ House

Summary: A recovery facility that provides for physical and emotional needs of homeless men.  (#381215)

Description: Christ House is a 38-bed facility for sick and homeless men. In addition to room and board, patients receive medical services (including 24-hour nursing care), referrals to specialists, case management by a social worker and assistance with housing placement. Almost 70 percent of discharged patients go to alternative housing, not back to the streets or shelters. Opportunities for spiritual growth are offered through ongoing workshops and discussion groups as well as worship services.

Christ House patients are admitted with a variety of illnesses and injuries including cancer, heart disease, AIDS, diabetes, fractures, gunshot or stab wounds, strokes, burns and frostbite. The average length of stay is currently 39 days. Many patients also suffer from drug or alcohol abuse; intensive treatment programs are offered to them. Each patient is assigned a physician and social worker who serve on an interdisciplinary team which also includes the director of housing, nurse practitioner and nurse administrator. The four teams meet weekly. Specialist care is provided through a network of over 300 medical specialists who agree to treat Christ House patients.

In addition to medical care, patients receive comprehensive case management, well balanced meals, clothing, activities designed to improve self-esteem and social interaction, opportunties for spiritual growth and health education.

Christ House also started Kairos House as a permanent home for chronically-ill homeless men who would not be eligible for the most transitional programs which are designed for healthy individuals.

Christ House is an important link in the continuation of care for homeless persons. Often is is the first chance for individuals to address personal issues underlying their homelessness and to begin to break the cycle of homelessness. Christ House provides a safe environment where homeless men can heal physically and spiritually.