At Dunamis Mission, we believe that every person deserves dignity, healing, and hope. Our commitment to these values drives our efforts to create impactful change in the lives of those we serve.
Power to Restore, Hope to Transform
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Addiction and Homelessness
Connecting Lives: Bridging Resources for Homelessness and Addiction Recovery
At Dunamis Mission, we are dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and struggling with substance use disorders. We recognize the barriers to accessing treatment and essential resources, which is why we actively network with federal, state, and local agencies to connect individuals with the support they need. Through our partnerships, we provide access to housing assistance, addiction treatment programs, mental health services, and employment resources, helping individuals rebuild their lives with stability and dignity. Our mission is to bridge the gap between those in need and the comprehensive care available, ensuring that no one has to face homelessness and addiction alone.
Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors of Substance Abuse in the Homeless Community
Substance abuse among individuals experiencing homelessness is influenced by a variety of factors, including:
- Self-Medication: Many turn to substances as a way to cope with stress, trauma, and daily hardships.
- Lack of Social Support: Isolation from family and friends can lead to substance use as a means of comfort or escape.
- Trauma: Studies show that 68% of men and 76% of women in addiction treatment while homeless have experienced significant trauma.
- Co-Occurring Physical Health Conditions: Homeless individuals with substance use disorders often face higher rates of HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, cardiovascular disease, dental issues, asthma, and diabetes.
- Social Acceptance & Substance Availability: Many homeless communities have a higher acceptance of substance use, and access to drugs and alcohol may be easier.
- Untreated Mental Illness: Mental health disorders frequently co-occur with addiction, leading many to self-medicate. Additionally, those with mental illness and substance use disorders face an increased risk of violence and victimization, further exacerbating the cycle of addiction and homelessness.
Addressing these risk factors through comprehensive treatment, mental health support, and access to stable housing is essential for breaking the cycle of addiction and homelessness.
Treatment Options for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness
Access to substance abuse treatment can be a significant challenge for individuals experiencing homelessness due to the cost of rehab and limited availability of treatment programs. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, even those who are motivated to seek help often struggle to find programs that will accept them.
However, several solutions exist to overcome these barriers and make treatment more accessible:
Housing-Focused Treatment Models
Housing First: A government-funded approach that prioritizes stable housing first, allowing individuals to address their mental health and substance use on their own terms.
Linear Model: Focuses on achieving abstinence first as a pathway to permanent housing. Both models offer unique benefits, and studies have shown success with both approaches.
State & Federal Assistance Programs
State-Funded Rehab Programs – Funded through SAMHSA grants, including:
- Community Mental Health Block Grants (MHBGs) – Supporting mental health services.
- Substance Abuse Block Grants (SABGs) – Funding addiction treatment for individuals without insurance.
Medicaid & Medicare Rehab Programs – Many rehabs accept Medicaid or Medicare, making treatment more accessible:
- Medicaid – Available to low-income individuals, with expanded efforts to enroll homeless individuals under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
- Medicare – A federal program for individuals over 65, regardless of income, which may cover addiction treatment.
Treatment Options for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness
🔹 Detoxification (Detox): Medically supervised withdrawal from substances to stabilize health.
🔹 Outpatient Treatment: Allows individuals to live offsite (such as in shelters or supportive housing) while attending rehab sessions.
🔹 Inpatient Treatment: Provides on-site residential care, offering a structured environment for recovery.
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Have Any Questions?
At Dunamis Mission, we are committed to connecting individuals with the right treatment programs, ensuring that homelessness and financial challenges are not barriers to recovery. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out today for guidance on available options.