This Saturday our class toured San Diego to see several facilities for senior housing. Of them all, the most memorable for me was Talmadge Gateway. Rebecca described that the facility was centered toward relieving home insecurity for seniors who are homeless and have severe medical needs. I thought this was extremely unique and necessary. If a homeless person has a severe medical condition, this is an extra stressor that may contribute to homelessness (e.g. expensive medical bills, treatment, uninsured). By targeting this population, one will be able to receive the medical attention they need as well as having a roof over their head.
One challenge all facilities mentioned facing was the raise of rent for seniors that are in a fixed income. Raising rent had seemed to be a necessity for building remodeling, amenities, and resources. The unique thing about Talmadge was the fact that their residence has vouchers from HUD- this allows them to keep the rent they charge at a fixed rate- approximately 33% of the individual’s income. This is comparable (and desirable) to the other senior homes that lacked such funding, and resultingly, have to charge rent that is nearly 2.5x as much.
It was not difficult to notice the sense of empowerment these offered programs and activities give to their residents. A resident (Bruce) was kind enough to show us his apartment, and while doing so, he talked to us about the impact being a part of this community has played in his life. He felt as if he was given a second chance at life, and by the support offered by Talmadge Gateway, he was able to attain his dignity and purpose. After battling cancer and homelessness, he is currently and advocate for combating homelessness in San Diego.
The most prominent thing I learned today was the importance of having a place to call home. For many of those who never had to worry about this insecurity, it is important to acknowledge the privilege one has and work to help the ones who don’t.
One challenge all facilities mentioned facing was the raise of rent for seniors that are in a fixed income. Raising rent had seemed to be a necessity for building remodeling, amenities, and resources. The unique thing about Talmadge was the fact that their residence has vouchers from HUD- this allows them to keep the rent they charge at a fixed rate- approximately 33% of the individual’s income. This is comparable (and desirable) to the other senior homes that lacked such funding, and resultingly, have to charge rent that is nearly 2.5x as much.
It was not difficult to notice the sense of empowerment these offered programs and activities give to their residents. A resident (Bruce) was kind enough to show us his apartment, and while doing so, he talked to us about the impact being a part of this community has played in his life. He felt as if he was given a second chance at life, and by the support offered by Talmadge Gateway, he was able to attain his dignity and purpose. After battling cancer and homelessness, he is currently and advocate for combating homelessness in San Diego.
The most prominent thing I learned today was the importance of having a place to call home. For many of those who never had to worry about this insecurity, it is important to acknowledge the privilege one has and work to help the ones who don’t.