“It’s tough. And I know it is. But if we can end homelessness? I truly believe it and that’s my testimony.”
Brigietta Lynn Kendricks is one of 25 women in the Degage Ministries Heartside Landings program tailored to women experiencing chronic homelessness and significant medical and mental health needs.
The pilot program launched a year ago and a recent assessment showed staggering success with a 100% retention rate and a 65% drop in ER visits among participants.
Focusing on a high-level of support and innovative programming, Degage partnered with Trinity Health, Catherine’s Health Center and Network 180 to target all aspects of the women’s needs.
“The right communications, the right staff. Getting my health together, my finances, feeling better about me.”
Kendricks agrees that Degage leaders have the right partners, supports and services in place to meet the needs of the chronically unhoused.
“Mentally, physically, emotionally I had to get ready for this fight because I know I’m going to beat it and that means we are going to end homelessness. And I see it coming."
Degage leaders are excited to see their approach spread to other local agencies.
Mel Trotter Ministries will be starting a similar program for men based on the Degage model.
