Who

DOORWAYS emergency housing has served a never-ending group of individuals and families affected by HIV who are homeless or in need of emergency shelter. The majority report zero income at intake, however, some are in low-wage jobs, often part-time. These “working poor” live paycheck to paycheck. One disruption in income or in their temporary housing situation may lead to homelessness.

What

Emergency Housing provides 60- to 90-day stays. It starts with an intensive intake assessment to identify immediate needs and barriers to stable housing, such as lack of income, behavioral health conditions, and other life-limiting challenges. With limited time, multiple areas in need of stabilization are addressed simultaneously.

Clients gain access to basic needs such as food and resources to manage HIV and other chronic illnesses associated with poverty and homelessness. Our coordinators focus on sources of income, starting with enrollment in temporary benefit programs. Those able to work will receive employment counseling and access to job training/apprenticeship programs. Those unable to work may need to apply for disability income.

Success

Emergency Housing funding sets limits on length of stay, such as 60 or 90 days. While 60 days is often not enough time to stabilize client health, secure income, and locate independent housing, success is avoiding a return to homelessness. Helping clients secure long-term housing, reunite with family, or even enroll in further temporary housing programs provides time to build the skills needed to advance towards continued health and secure housing.

Clients with income may be able to secure an apartment. DOORWAYS remains as a safety net through our subsidies program, which provides temporary rent/utility relief when clients experience financial difficulties.  

If you are interested in assistance, please click here to go to the CLIENT PROCESS page or call the program director’s office at 314-328-2657 during office hours (Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

26,612

nights of emergency housing were provided in FY21.

A 30% increase over the prior year.