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Harm Reduction Housing for Older People with Experiences of Homelessness (HR HOPEH) is a project aimed at enhancing access to integrated primary care with addiction and mental health supports for older adults with histories of unstable housing. This 3-year pilot was funded by Health Canada's Substance Use and Addictions Program in 2019, and is situated in Alberta. The HR HOPEH project embraces a holistic approach, recognizing that harm reduction is multifaceted and includes everything from managed alcohol supports and sterile supply distribution to recreation programming and dietary considerations. It has involved collaboratively co-designing, co-implementing, and co-evaluating a suite of programming in partnership with residents and staff at a Permanent Supportive Housing site for older adults. The learnings from this pilot will be shared broadly with targeted local and Provincial stakeholders, with the aim of promoting the development of similar programming Province-wide.
Coming Soon to a Theatre Near You . . .
'Home Wasn't Built in a Day' is a short documentary produced in partnership with The Exchange Resident Advisory Group, Harbour House staff and residents, and Ritz Photo and Film. Check back often for updates on where to view the film.
Synopsis: Older people with experiences of homelessness, substance use, and mental health challenges are often excluded from decision-making about their housing and care. Harbour House is a low-barrier housing facility for seniors in Alberta, where an innovative pilot project is taking place. Residents at Harbour House are helping to design harm reduction programming in their home to meet their distinct needs and preferences. This film follows this memorable group of seniors as they describe how this new programming has helped them build relationships, promote social inclusion, and find a sense of home.
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