Learn About St Vincent De Paul Phoenixs Ozanam Manor Transitional Shelter
Ozanam Manor Director Mike Bell offers insight into the Ozanam Manor transitional housing program run by St
. Vincent de Paul Phoenix. With so many challenges and barriers that face the Phoenix homeless on their journey to gain self-sufficiency, Ozanam Manor provides a safe, nurturing and supportive environment helping guests transition to independent permanent housing. Bell encourages anyone interested in donating or perhaps learning the benefits of volunteering to contact St. Vincent de Paul.1. What is the Ozanam Manor and what can people expect to see at the open house?
Ozanam Manor is temporary housing for homeless men and women seeking permanent housing who may have difficulty leaving homelessness on their own because they are disabled or older (age 50 and up). The facility consists of 49 beds in 6 dormitories, with attached kitchenettes, case management offices and small yards.
2. What are some unique features of the Ozanam Manor?
I think the unique thing about Ozanam Manor is the community that residents find here. The size is moderate, avoiding both the trouble of too many people; with cliques forming and some individuals marginalized, and too few people; with too much isolation. Ozanam Manor has a variety of vital programs, including work credit, mentoring and events, like holiday meals and this open house, that give residents a chance to play key leadership and supportive roles for the group. The Ozanam Manor is fortunate to have highly-qualified people from the larger community who give their expertise and love to support our residents.
3. What is the most surprising for people when they get to know those who are homeless?
They are not unlike people we know or people we might have in our own families. We get a biased impression when the only homeless people we encounter are panhandlers. Ozanam Manor residents would not stand out in a shopping mall or any other public place. When you get to know homeless people, you find that homeless by choice generally does not apply. It is easier to understand why some people are homeless and what their hopes and dreams are when you hear from them in their own words. I continue to be surprised how moving it is when people get to know homeless individuals on a personal level.
4. What do you find is the most effective way to break the cycle of homelessness?
I agree with many experts on homelessness that more affordable housing is the main answer. However, from my own experience, personal relationships are very important. For each homeless person who finds his or her way to permanent housing, there are other people; homeless friends, a case manager, a volunteer mentor, a doctor, an employer, a minister, an apartment manager, who supported and guided them. Whatever large-scale policies are adopted to end the mass homelessness, the help we give as individuals will be crucial for the homeless people we encounter.
5. How can people help support Ozanam Manor?
The first thing people can do is simply to get to know some homeless people. I am just about as hesitant as anyone else to initiate a conversation with someone, who may be a little intimidating, on the street. But in the right setting it is quite safe and you wont feel that you are offending or intimidating the homeless person, either. Call Ozanam Manor to arrange a private tour at 602-850-6900. The Ozanam Manor program, like the other St. Vincent de Paul ministries, also depends heavily on volunteers and donations. In-kind donations can be supplies that will make peoples lives better, like bedding, personal hygiene items or kitchen supplies, or financial contributions. Volunteer for a day and understand why volunteering is important and the benefits of volunteering. Any interest or support is very much appreciated
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