From Streets to Stability: The Critical Role of Expanded Shelter Services-ft. Dr. David Woody

OurCalling - Our podcast about homelessness

In this episode, Pastor Wayne Walker, CEO of OurCalling, interviews Dr. David Woody, who has significantly impacted The Bridge as its President and CEO, steering its evolution through challenging times, particularly post-pandemic. They delve into the role of The Bridge as a critical low barrier shelter offering comprehensive services and facing a critical need for expanded capacity due to the disparity between day and night shelter capabilities. The discussion also covers the intricacies of care management, the high success rates of those housed, and the urgency for more shelters and actionable housing solutions. Furthermore, they explore the importance of data in strategic planning, community education, and collaboration with faith-based organizations to enhance the support system for the homeless.
***************

- **Dr. David Woody's Background** [01:31]
- President and CEO of The Bridge for 6 years, involved for 9 years.
- Significant growth and activity noticed on campus since the pandemic.

- **Role of The Bridge** [02:10, 02:43]
- A low barrier shelter helping single adults aged 18 and older.
- Provides comprehensive day and night services including food, showers, and canine kennels.

- **Capacity and Demand Issues** [03:36]
- Current facilities face a large disparity between day (700) and night (approx. 400) shelter capacities, resulting in many unsheltered individuals.

- **Evolution of Services at The Bridge** [08:56]
- Focus on recovery and crafting individualized care and housing plans based on the specific needs (health, mental health, substance use) of the guests.

- **Care Management and Success Rates** [11:57, 12:42]
- Emphasis on diverse care management teams assisting with recovery, intensive needs, and sustaining housing post-placement.
- High success rate with 93% of housed individuals remaining in housing at 6 months.

- **Importance of More Shelter Beds and Housing** [05:54, 16:24]
- Urgent need for more shelters to accommodate growing numbers, and a push for actionable resources to turn funding into housing solutions.

- **Complexities of Housing Vouchers and Collaboration with Landlords** [16:53]
- Challenges with finding adequate and accepting housing options for guests with ready-to-use vouchers.

- **Data Integration and Utilization** [29:10, 29:48]
- Importance of improving data analysis and accuracy beyond point-in-time counts to better support strategic planning and resource allocation.

- **Racial and Community Equity** [30:17, 32:09, 33:12]
- Discusses the disproportion of African American guests at The Bridge and the need to address upstream barriers and inequities in community resources.

- **Collaboration with Faith-Based Organizations** [39:17]
- The Bridge values partnerships with faith groups to address spiritual needs as part of comprehensive care for guests.

- **Individual Stories of Impact** [41:11]
- Highlighting personal transformations and ongoing connections that illustrate the profound effect of The Bridge's services on individuals' lives.

- **Community and Public Education** [34:26]
- Importance of educating the public on effective strategies to support the homeless, maximizing the impact of resources.

★ Support this podcast ★