Chesapeake Health Education Program
Washington DC - Transitional Residence
In 1995, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved a grant for CHEP to provide transitional housing to homeless veterans. This grant was successful for four years and at its conclusion, CHEP initiated an independent program with its own funds to continue this important work. The result was the establishment of the John McDermott House located in Washington, DC.
The John McDermott House model began with a memorandum of understanding between the Washington DC VA Medical Center, the Washington DC Housing Authority (DCHA) and the Chesapeake Health Education Program (CHEP). CHEP provides on-site house staff 24/7 and provides a structured and supervised transitional housing environment with supplemental clinical support from the VA medical center staff. The program’s unique mix of therapeutic assistance, work-for-pay, and community-based living places a strong emphasis on personal responsibility. Veterans must be able to manage their own medication and participate in outpatient care for medication adjustments and other medical services. The residence is a safe, drug and alcohol free home that serves as a stepping-stone to independent living.
The McDermott House model is unique. There is no other housing program operated by a non-profit organization that is dedicated exclusively to formerly homeless veterans who are employed through Veterans Industries. This housing site has enjoyed consistency and success since its inception and has been a major resource to the VA medical center in Washington DC. All 26 resident beds are used exclusively for veterans in the Compensated Work Therapy Program (CWT). With an average stay of only 6-9 months, the veterans receive close supervision and support from VA staff. The major challenge facing each veteran is to build up enough personal, employment and economic strength to make a successful transition to full community participation.