It is our goal to work with our residents to help them find the strength and skills to move on to self-sufficiency.

Residents are required to meet with a case manager within three days of arriving at New Horizons. Residents immediately prepare an action plan with their case manager establishing goals to help them establish sustainable housing outside the shelter. They may also be referred to the on site Homeless Health Care Team as well a mental health worker for assessment.

The first step in the Case Management process is to identify the factors that caused the client to become homeless. The case management team helps determine the client's eligibility for various housing options, government benefits, work training opportunities, life skills development programs, and encourages clients to seek employment, actively advocating for them in accessing services available through other service organizations.

Once a resident has prepared their goal plan with a case manager, they are expected to act on that plan. A Tier Program, which was implemented with funding from Citizens Bank, is in place that recognizes the needs of residents who are attempting to address active substance abuse issues. The program moves from the pre-contemplative stage, Tier 1; through the process to Tier 3. Tier 3 individuals have overcome major barriers and learned skills which will aid them in breaking patterns which contributed to their becoming homeless. Residents at Tier 3 have accomplished a great deal and worked through many challenges. Women in Tier 3 may move to Angie's. As clients move up the Tier Program they are more prepared to cope with fears and obstacles associated with homelessness and, for some, the fears associated with addiction.

After a client successfully leaves the shelter their case managers, the program director and executive director remain available to meet with them and help them through any hurdles that come their way. Former residents are welcome to attend any programs that are of interest to them. It is New Horizons' goal to help keep clients living independently.