Quincy Interfaith Sheltering Coalition

CONTACT:

38 Broad St.
Quincy, MA 02169
617-376-2255
www.fatherbillsplace.org

John Yazwinski, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

QISC's particular concern is homelessness in South Shore communities. It has a strategic interest, however, in how to respond adequately to the broad and complex problem of homelessness. On both levels it has pioneered a distinctive approach: to connect its basic service (shelter) with other homeless-related services both public and private. The result is a community-based, community-wide, comprehensive system can offer the broad range of services required to deal with this complex problem adequately.

QISC began in 1984 as a $500-a-year operation in a Salvation Army basement, launched by a few leaders who were becoming aware of the homelessness problem in their community. Today it is a community-wide shelter system, that can house 75 adults (63 men, 12 women) at two sites (including the shelter, Father Bill's Place), and provide a range of homeless-related services aimed at moving homeless individuals to independent self-support in the community. The Coalition breaks down self-destructive habits, and supports in appropriate ways, single women, veterans, the mentally ill, chronic substance abusers, and persons with HIV/AIDS.

QISC has assisted in securing $1.4 million in housing subsidies for homeless disabled persons. It has collaborated with the Greater Boston Housing Initiative to create Quincy's first housing search service for homeless adults, utilizing a specialist from QISC to broker arrangements between landlords and those seeking housing. A case management team helps 36 formerly homeless people live independently in the community.

QISC needs to raise half its budget from philanthropic donors. Will you help?

(1997: HUMAN SERVICES: Well-Being)