HARM REDUCTION MODALITY
NU-Housing Initiatives is firmly rooted in the principles of a Harm
Reduction model -- low threshold, non-judgmental, and engaging. From the initial meeting with new clients, staff members begin assessing their needs according to these principles. Referrals are made as necessary to meals and pantry programs, childcare, medical and mental health services and detoxification and rehabilitation programs according to the continuum of outpatient care. These referrals and the requisite follow-ups continue during the more formal assessment of the client and throughout his/her course with NU-Housing Initiatives.
We do think that there is much room for instilling Harm Reduction principles (meeting a client where they are at) at NU-Housing Initiatives. In addition to working collaboratively on individual client goals, NU-Housing Initiatives is committed to consumers and management working collaboratively in the development and enhancement of program operations. Clients will continue to be encouraged to communicate their service needs and to work with NU-Housing .
Initiatives senior staff in evaluating the emergence of new social service linkages and other service needs.
NU-Housing Initiatives' service provision strategy relies heavily on coordination with local community-based organizations experienced in caring for PLWHA. These linkages provide on-going, professional consultation to assist in the coordination, evaluation and improvement of NU-Housing Initiatives clients and the overall mission and goals of our organization.
