Family & Children’s Agency Provides Shelter from the Cold
When the thermometer drops below freezing, people experiencing homelessness face a challenge that many of us would consider simple – how to stay warm. In Norwalk, the Community Connections Drop-In Center of Family & Children’s Agency (FCA) offers a respite from the cold, and much more.
Entering the facility, which is located at 7 Concord Street, clients are greeted by two staff members, who offer them coffee, tea and doughnuts. Each morning, two vocational counselors are available to talk to clients about their resumes and job searches, along with two case managers who can link clients to treatment resources for physical and mental health issues. In the afternoon, the center offers special programs, such as a weekly art class, or access to English- and Spanish-speaking drug treatment advocates. The center also offers clients access to bicycles for transportation to appointments and interviews. The Drop-In Center is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., covering the hours when the overnight shelter is closed. Services at the center are offered to adults free of charge.
Chris Jachino, Director of Homeless Services at FCA, explained that safety is a key issue, saying, “Our first priority is to provide a safe environment for people, where they feel comfortable.” In addition to the professional resources available for clients, they are welcome to relax and read books or play board games, all of which have been donated to the Drop-In Center. Mr. Jachino noted, “Donations are really important in our program. For the holidays, the generosity of our supporters enabled us to give each client a new hat, gloves and socks. We are very appreciative of their willingness to reach out to our clients.”
Mr. Jachino noted that the drop-in center has a genuine customer and “market” focus. In addition to working with individual clients, he monitors trends in the environment. For example, when the economic downturn began, the inventory of studio and one-bedroom apartments decreased as people “shifted down” in housing, so clients at the Drop-In Center had fewer opportunities to find housing. He now is beginning to see that shortage ease as the economy improves. The staff also looks for direct feedback from clients about the assistance they need. Twice a year, the staff conducts “town meetings” with those who use the center to talk about the benefits of the program and the elements that are successful, as well as areas where improvements can be made.
Mr. Jachino summarized the value of the program by saying, “FCA’s Drop-In Center is the only local program that offers services seven days a week to people experiencing homelessness. Without the Drop-In Center, there would be no indoor shelter for homeless adults during the day, so we are filling a critical need in the community.”
