Unique Shelter Eases Way for Homeless : Apartments Shared by Mentally Ill and Recovering Addicts Are Beneficial for Both

The shortage of shelter for the homeless is a problem in Orange County, despite its wealthy image. Finding places to stay for those who are mentally ill or trying to kick a drug habit can be even tougher.

In San Clemente, an organization called Friendship Shelter has started a worthwhile attempt to let homeless adults who are recovering from drug or alcohol abuse and those who are mentally ill share apartments. Equally impressive is the project’s attempt to forgo subsidies and be self-supporting once all eight units in two buildings are rented.

The facility is called Henderson House, in honor of Colin Henderson, an Episcopal priest and executive director of Friendship Shelter in Laguna Beach. Henderson launched the new project.

Men and women who complete a rehabilitation program at the Laguna Beach shelter for those temporarily homeless can apply to live in the San Clemente facility. It will allow for a transition from the shelter to completely independent living. Those who work with the homeless and with recovering addicts say such transitional facilities can be vital in helping people stay off the streets or off drugs for good.

Orange County mental health officials said the project is unique in the county. It also is badly needed. Due to the bankruptcy, the county cut its budget for mental health programs. The county had paid for 42 beds for the homeless and mentally ill at various shelters; that total will drop to 18.

Those recovering from drug and alcohol abuse can stay at Henderson House six months if they remain sober, hold a job and attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Mentally ill tenants can stay two years if they take medication, see a mental health worker and either work or somehow contribute to the community. Those are reasonable conditions. If met, the residents and the community both should benefit.