DC Health and Academic Prep Program (DC HAPP)

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Description

In Washington, D.C. the total number of homeless individuals in 2024 was 5,616 people (Homelessness in D.C., n.d.). Amongst this population, substance misuse is 1.5% higher in homeless populations versus low-income peoples with housing (Mosel, 2025). This increased vulnerability to substance use disorder (SUD) significantly contributes to a cycle of relapsing, unemployment, and housing instability. Our program, Bridge to Stability, works to address two interconnected challenges: substance use disorder and chronic homelessness. By combining shelter, rapid access to treatment, peer mentorship, and job training, this intervention creates a structured and inclusive bridge to long-term recovery for homeless populations experiencing SUD. This program is held at The Aston, which is a former GW dormitory that was converted into a homeless shelter in 2024. Our target population is homeless individuals living in Ward 2 that are experiencing SUD. The Aston has an existing program, known as The Friendship Place. However, this program does not extensively address treatment and services for SUD. Through our program, all residents at The Aston will be screened to assess for current SUD. Participants will then engage in peer-led mentorship and assertive community therapy to build trust and support recovery. Job training lectures will be taught by GW Professors, and peer mentorship groups will be used to inspire individuals. Through partnerships with organizations such as Whitman-Walker and DC Central Kitchen, this program empowers participants to take care of their health, build workforce skills, and transition towards long-term independence. Our intervention is grounded by the Social Ecological Model, which aims to understand the interconnectedness of human health behaviors by breaking down multiple social levels, including individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy. The overall goal of our program is to create a healthy and informative environment that helps get people back on their feet.

Publication Date

2025

Keywords

Homeless Population; Substance Misuse; Substance Use Disorder

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© 2025 The Authors. All Rights Reserved.

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Bridge to Stability: A Recovery and Employment Program for Homeless Individuals in Washington D.C.

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