Frequently Asked Questions
Q:
Is
the 6 Bank Street Shelter a typical homeless shelter?
A:
The 6 Bank Street Shelter is NOT your
typical homeless shelter. The Coalition strives to create a "homelike"
atmosphere. Set in the Village of North Bennington, the shelter is
walking distance to schools, a public library, parks, and a lake with
various recreational opportunities. Each household has their own bedroom
and share a common area i.e. Living room, kitchen, dining room, and
playroom.
Q: Does the Coalition serve homeless
singles?
A: Yes, the Coalition does serve homeless
individuals. As the homeless population continues to grow throughout the
state, the Coalition strives to meet the demand by assisting homeless
families and individuals obtain permanent housing.
Q: Is there a time limit for which my family
can stay at the shelter?
A: Transitional housing provided by the Bennington
Coalition for the Homeless can extend to 24 months. The 6 Bank Street
Shelter Program has a three month average stay. Thatcher
House has an average stay of 6 months, and McCall Street is intended to
be a one to two year program.
Q: What type of programs are available at the Coalition?
A: The Bennington Coalition for the Homeless offers
various life skills education, employment readiness skills, case
management, and personal enrichment programs in each one of our
facilities. A case manager is assigned to each resident who will help
develop a realistic plan for self-sufficiency. This plan includes budget
counseling, housing placement, service referrals, and conflict
mediation. An employment coordinator helps residents develop resumes and
teaches effective interviewing skills while connecting residents to
potential employers. Our life skills coordinator assists residents by
teaching such skills as parenting, cooking and nutrition, gardening and
other skills to maintain a healthy household. Personal enrichment
projects include trips to area museums and theaters, horseback riding
excursions, groups, etc.
Q: I am homeless, how can I enter your
program and begin receiving help?
A: Due to the rising demand for housing, it is
important for you to be referred to us preferably by another agency. If
you are not working with an agency, you can call yourself. By calling
the main office, BCH staff will ask you for basic information in order
to get you on our waiting list. The 6 Bank Street Shelter is primarily a
family shelter, however, singles are also accepted when room is
available. Before entering the 6 Bank Street program, a background check
is completed. If your background is clear from any violent criminal
history, BCH staff will get you into the shelter as soon as there is
room available. The Thatcher House is open to singles and couples only
and criminal history will not prevent you from entering this program.
Those on probation or furlough can in fact be accepted into Thatcher
House by first being referred by a probation officer. Please understand
that our waiting lists are sometimes extensive, immediate entry is
unlikely.
Q: I am unable to pay my utility bills and
rent, is the Coalition able to help me financially?
A: The Bennington Coalition for the Homeless may be
able to assist with back rent, security deposits, first months rents or
a utility shut off, as funding allows. Individuals or families can apply
for this assistance by calling or stopping by Thatcher House for an
appointment.