Gavin's Update - January 2024

During the frigid month of January, keeping clients warm and dry becomes one of our top priorities. Josh and I are making sure to check in with our clients who are living outside at least once a week if not more. During the winter months we typically give propane tanks for their heaters, more blankets due to theirs being soaked from the weather, and constantly providing additional food and warm clothing. A recent barrier we faced in our work has been obtaining documents such as (Photo ID’s, Birth Certificates, and Social Security Cards) for our clients however lately our clients appear to be more motivated and receptive to the services we offer.

Another successful outcome I have seen throughout my work is the number of clients willing to go into Detox. Josh and I have assisted 6 individuals in getting a detox bed. We are hopeful that these individuals will get into long term treatment through the detox facility which will then assist them with housing. 

One of the challenges I have faced has been the increase in our caseload along with the limited space for these clients to go. We receive many self-referrals in addition to referrals from the CAN and Waterbury PD about individuals who are living outside, in cars or vacant buildings. The local shelter has been at capacity every day for the last few weeks due to the cold weather. Sadly, the governor has only put the “Cold Weather Protocol” into effect once this winter and that was 1/17-1/22. We are finding more and more individuals being stuck outside with no place to go. Even when the warming center was open both the shelter and warming center were at full capacity.