According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 44% of the homeless population in the U.S. has a severe mental illness or a chronic substance use disorder. Approximately 30% of people experiencing chronic homelessness have a serious mental illness, and roughly two-thirds have a primary substance use disorder or other chronic health condition.
For nearly seven decades, Fountain House has helped people living with mental illness get back on track through the most innovative, cost-effective and successful evidence-based mental health recovery approach in the world. Founded by and for people living with serious mental illnesses of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression, Fountain House’s primary goal is to reduce stigma and support its members in pursuing the fundamental elements of a fulfilling and meaningful life – social relationships, work, education, housing, wellness and self-expression.
Fountain House has transformed the lives of more than 20,000 people in New York City, supporting them in becoming active contributors to the community in which they live. Recipient of the 2014 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize — the largest and most prestigious humanitarian award in the world — Fountain House has grown into a community-based global mental health movement that directly impacts the lives of over 100,000 people annually.
The John A. Reisenbach Foundation has partnered with Fountain House to establish the Hardest to Serve Homeless Initiative. The Initiative helps create a better and safer New York City by identifying and engaging “hard to serve” individuals (people living with serious mental illness who have had histories of chronic homelessness and who may have a co-occurring disorder) in a robust support program that provides the resources necessary to live independently. To learn more about the incredible work of Fountain House, a JAR partner organization, visit their website: fountainhouse.org.
Please click here to support Fountain House and our other grantee partners working in service of a Safer and Better NYC!
