Community Harm Reduction Team (C-HRT) and Harm Reduction Interim Shelter

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

The Community Harm Reduction Team (C-HRT) and the Harm Reduction Interim Shelter in San Diego aim to assist those who are experiencing chronic substance use, co-occurring mental health conditions, and homelessness. The program is a collaboration between the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency and the City of San Diego Homelessness Strategies and Solutions Department. The services offered by C-HRT include street outreach, harm reduction, just-in-time services, case management, system navigation, permanent housing, behavioral health service referrals, and medical care referrals. The street outreach program is staffed by a multi-disciplinary team and operated by the Family Health Centers of San Diego. The shelter, run by Alpha Project, provides 44 beds and supportive oversight for individuals in transition to permanent housing. The program has seen positive results, including 200 individuals with improved health and quality of life, and 17 individuals transitioning to permanent housing. The C-HRT team provides resources and support to ensure a successful transition. Individuals are not required to be substance-free or attend treatment as part of their participation in the program.