SUNBEAM EMERGENCY SHELTER FOR SENIORS AND THE MEDICALLY FRAGILE PROGRAM
Program Description
The Sunbeam Emergency Shelter is a reliable alternative to a traditional homeless shelter, designed with the frail, elderly and medically needy in mind. It is staffed twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and is supported by therapists from Sunbeam’s clinic-based counseling program and Senior Services staff.
The original aim of the Sunbeam Emergency Shelter for Seniors and the Medically Fragile Program was to serve victims of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. The program expanded to shelter homeless seniors as a result of medical condition.Shelter stays are generally available for thirty days and can extend to additional time if required.
Shelter residents are referred to Sunbeam from hospitals, the Department of Health Services (DHS), mental health and social service providers, law enforcement, other homeless shelters, community resources and churches.
In addition to temporary shelter housing senior residents are provided with the following assistance:
Case management services - to help improve self-esteem and reestablish family connections.
Applying for permanent affordable senior housing.
Health monitoring - through medical appointments, prescription refills, referrals to social service providers
Therapeutic activities and counseling.
Employment - assists older adults with job searches and locating skill training.
Senior Advocacy - assists seniors with finding legal guidance.
Meals - provides senior residents with three meals each day, snacks and nutrition education.
Recovery – helps victims of elder abuse, neglect, eviction, drug and alcohol addictions, and serious illnesses with counseling or therapy.
source: sunbeamfamilyservices.org
Elder Abuse Prevention Programs
