We're CARF Accredited!

August 14, 2018

Three-Year CARF Accreditation Awarded to Columbus House

Those Experiencing Homeless, including Veterans, Benefit from Quality Services

New Haven, CT - Three Columbus House programs have earned the highest level of accreditation from CARF International for quality of service: Supportive Services for Veteran Families/Rapid Re-Housing, Permanent Supportive Housing and Medical Respite. Each program was awarded a three-year accreditation from CARF - The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, demonstrating Columbus House’s dedication to meeting international standards for program quality, measurability and accountability, and its commitment to continuously pursuing excellence.

 

All of Columbus House’s programs utilize “person-centered” and “housing first” philosophies, with the belief that people are better able to effectively access services they need to regain their independence after they are housed. The staff of Columbus House works with clients to get them into housing and access the services they need to stay housed indefinitely.

 

Supportive Services for Veteran Families/Rapid Re-Housing (SSVF/RRH), provides up to 90-days of services for Veterans and their families who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless in New Haven, Middlesex, and New London counties. SSVF offers financial assistance, Rapid Re-Housing, and benefit & employment services. The program is managed by an experienced Veteran. RRH moves people directly from instances of homelessness into their own rental unit by providing short-term financial assistance in the form of initial rent, security deposits, and/or utility assistance. 

 

Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) provides over 400 people per year with case management and supportive services so those who were once homeless and are now housed can remain in their homes. Clients across New Haven and Middlesex counties are served as well as residents of The Jefferson in New Britain. Last year, 98% of those in our PSH programs maintained or improved their living situation.

 

Medical Respite is an innovative program that provides recuperative care to those who are homeless and exiting the hospital. Based out of our New Haven Shelter, referrals come directly from Yale New-Haven Hospital and the VA Hospital in West Haven. The 12-bed program includes 24-hour supervision, referrals to healthcare providers, transportation, and case management. In addition, the program lowers public healthcare costs by reducing unnecessary hospitalizations.

 

About Columbus House

Columbus House opened its doors in 1982 to provide services for women and men at least 18 years of age. Its goals quickly broadened from the mere provision of food and shelter and simple survival, to understanding and working toward overcoming the problems which cause people to become homeless. Now in its 36th year, Columbus House, along with its core of loyal supporters, friends and volunteers, remains committed to fulfilling its mission of serving people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, by providing shelter and housing and by fostering their personal growth and independence.

 

Columbus House relies on government grants as well as contributions from the private sector including businesses, foundations and individuals to accomplish its mission. With an extensive base of volunteer support and collaborative partnerships with a number of community-based service providers, Columbus House is able to offer a broad continuum of care for those experiencing homelessness.

 

For additional information, please visit the CARF website. 

 

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