Since 1992, whenCatholic Charities moved Exodus to our present location at 819 Second Avenue,we have rarely had a room not occupied for even one night. Everyday I dealwith people who are trying to make improvements in their lives but theyneed help. Unfortunately, we have experienced a high return rate among residents. Many find apartments but within a year lose them and return to the hotel. Homelessness can easily become a lifestyle.
Exodus becomes a place wheremany find a community of which they feel a part.
However, their supportis from those who are struggling, as they are, to achieve their life-sustaininggoals. We want to begin a mentoring program at the Exodus Hotel andwe are asking for your help. This mentoring program would only includeresidents who have exhibited consistent positive behavior. Most importantly, a mentor wouldbe a personal resource, a person willing to seek information on behalfof the resident. We do not expect, nor do we want, mentors to directlyteach or counsel residents but rather to assist them in finding servicesand information.