Community Reintegration Services - Shelter Plus Care Program

This program is a joint collaboration between the Housing Authority of Portland, Housing Authority of Vancouver and the VA. It provides long-term rental assistance and case management services to homeless veterans with disabilities to help them to achieve and maintain independent living,- in the community.

The Goal

The goal of the Shelter Plus Care Program is to provide time limited rental assistance and case management services to a minimum of 40 homeless veterans with disabilities to help them to achieve and maintain functional independent living within the Portland Metropolitan community.

The Method

The program has been awarded a grant to provide rental assistance and case management services for 40 homeless veterans at any one time in the Portland/Multnomah County area.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Complete CRS Screening;
• Veteran status - those eligible for services under Veterans Health Administration guidelines;
• 18 years of age or older;
• homeless
• have a diagnosis of chemical dependency, mental illness or both;
• Willingness to work with a case manager and follow a treatment plan;
• Willingness to participate in an ongoing program of recovery and remain alcohol and drug free;
• A reference/referral from a care provider or case manager, or a self referral;
• An ability to care for self, perform routine activities of daily living, maintain medications, and keep appointments with service providers;
• Income to meet 30% of rent, plus income to meet ongoing independent living expenses.

Case Management Services Provided:

• Assistance in locating appropriate housing in the community;
• Group and individual treatment;
• Substance abuse counseling and relapse prevention;
• Help with referrals to community agencies for vocational services, educational pursuits, and other assistance as needed;
• Problem solving strategies/crisis intervention;
• Linking participants to ancillary VA health services and other appropriate community services.

Points of contact:

Larry Hanson, MSW, Community Reintegration Service
VA Medical Center, P.O. Box 1035 (V3DOM)
Portland, OR 97207

Vancouver (360) 696-4061, ext. 33718
Portland (503) 220-8262, ext. 33718 Outside Portland/Vancouver 1-800-949-1004

Jim Just, Community Reintegration Service, CDS3
VA Medical Center, P.O. Box 1035 (V3DOM)
Portland, OR 97207

Vancouver (360) 696-4061, ext. 33487
Portland (503) 220-8262, ext. 33487