Due to unique religious and cultural beliefs, language barriers, immigration status, and a basic mistrust of the traditional health care system, a special approach is required to reach this segment of the community. For a person to be understood and not judged is a most unique experience for many of Hope House's clients. Clients realize that the Peer Advocate has had similar experiences and has an understanding of their unique situation. They no longer feel alone and learn that the Peer Advocate has knowledge to share about the different systems and how to get what is needed in a safe and reliable way. The system is demystified for the client and it is then that they start investing in themselves and the system and learn how to access and receive what is needed.
Clients also learn about the disease, medicines and what is going on with their body.
Eight Peer Advocates have been trained thus far. As of March 2000, this program has served 82 clients. Please read it.