Providing services & resources for motivated residents to become self-sufficient.

Become a
resident

referral accepted

Life as a resident

Services and support that promote individual choice

ACCOUNTABILITY
EMPOWERMENT
ENRICHMENT
SUPPORT
HOUSING SECURITY

This program is supported in part by a grant from the 

Signage (2) (1)

You took First Step and signed-up as a resident for our health  and  housing program; First Step becomes your transitional home.

Holding people accountable is not only vital to our success but the success of our residents. 

We take a holistic approach to rebuilding and transforming lives by addressing each person’s physical, mental  financial, and spiritual health. Our evidence-based “intensive case management” approach to address each person’s unique needs.

The four health priorities are the foundation to the personalized plan to housing. Dignity, respect and accountability are they key commitments made between resident and case manager.

From this point forward, you are not alone; your case manager will guide you, walk beside you and point the way on the journey down the path to housing.

We provide all the resources needed for motivated residents to become self-sufficient– three meals a day, in our  communal dining area, the  multi-purpose salon, flanked by male  & female dorms,  a laundry room, computer room/library, the case manager offices located at the dorm entry and  access to our health unit and transportation program.

DIGNITY & RESPECT

HEALTH & HOUSING PROGRAM

You are now a resident of the First Step Shelter Health & Housing program.  

ACCOUNTABILITY

All  potential residents go through an intake process. Intake starts in the Health Unit, where new residents shower, receive new clothing and are screened for conditions that may need medical attention.  From there, a Case Manager reviews the Resident Handbook, and together they create an individual success plan.  

settling in 

The new resident is then assigned a bed bed, locker, and storage tub  plus a medication locker and provided with information on the day-to-day at the shelter. The shelter provides residents with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals are only provided during a designated time. 

Daily requirements

  • Keep your living area at the shelter tidy and clean
  • Wash your clothes as needed
  • Properly taking medications and practice positive hygiene habits
  • Complete your daily chore at the shelter
  • Attend group and individual meetings
  • Follow your individual service plan.

Questions ? Request information or call 386-361-3800

EMPOWERMENT

INCOME & EMPLOYMENT

Housing and self-sufficiency can only be achieved through income, either through employment or social benefits you qualify for.  If you have a disability, your caseworker will assist you with applications.

Your case manager will show you how to use our Computer Lab, which enables you to find employment and apply for jobs; volunteers also provide additional computer lab support during the week.

First Step Shelter has built relationships with local employers, and your case manager can help match you with job opportunities and their contact information.

You will save 50% of your income to use toward future housing costs;

All residents are required to find employment or gain income from benefits like social security, SSDI within 30 days of becoming a resident. Your case manager will assist you and evaluate  your options.  

Gaining employment is your responsibility and residents must apply for twenty-five jobs per week. 

ENRICHMENT 

All residents will attend life Skills Training.

Life Skills Training

 SUPPORT

Our goal is to empower you to transform your life. You are not alone on your journey. First Step Shelter provides supportive services to ensure your success. Your case manager is you link to all the services available to you.  

Transportation

The Thomas Trular Legacy transportation program consist of two vans donated to First Step Shelter, providing residents with safe and dependable transportation to meet life’s needs.  It is a coordinated program residents sign-up for a ride from the shelter and back to necessary appointments or errands.

Medical appointments

Agency Appointments-like DCF, Social Security Offices, Veteran Affairs, FDHMV-license/id 

Bank, Pharmacy, Shopping

Job  & Job Interviews

Housing & Landlord Appointments 

Support Groups

AA  meetings are held twice a week at First Step Shelter.

 

HOUSING SECURITY

HOUSING

All resid

VOUCHERS 

HELP 

"Big thanks to the First Step Shelter team for being there for me. You made me feel like I'm a part of the community and helped me gain confidence in myself."
- Mark J. -
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