approaches ( November 12-20 , 2022 ), ECS continues to raise awareness about the need for services tailored to the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness .
A “ Safe Haven ” is housing designed for individuals experiencing homelessness and living with severe mental illness and / or substance use disorders . ECS utilizes a systemic and whole-person approach that tailors support according to residents ’ development history and their experiences with trauma and retraumatization . Trauma is a common experience for Safe Haven residents , which is reflected in their coping skills and selfcare practices . Rather than see residents as “ resistant ,” staff are trained to recognize their self-protecting behaviors and use safety , empathy and validation to build trusting relationships .
Tanya with tote bag
ECS ’ s Tim Whipple and Tanya at Uptown Safe Haven
To operate the Safe Haven , ECS collaborates with the Community Research Foundation , the San Diego Housing Commission , the San Diego County ’ s Health
and Human Services Agency , and a host of community agencies that provide support services to uplift residents to achieve their full potential . The program hosts weekly community meetings , art workshops , group meals , pet therapy sessions , monthly barbecues , day trips and birthday and holiday celebrations to strengthen residents ’ interpersonal relationships . Additionally , the program staff reinforces independent living skills with ongoing workshops on personal hygiene , personal boundaries , self-care , cooking / meal prep , budgeting , laundry skills , resiliency , communication skills , conflict resolution , decision-making and social skills . A clothing bank with new socks , underwear , t-shirts , and sweatshirts is also available to residents .
To learn more about the Safe Haven , and Episcopal Community Services ’ full breadth of services , visit www . ecscalifornia . org .
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