1. PORTAL PROGRAM
Options and Resources for Movement and Growth
Programming for Current Tenants:
Every Deborah’s Place tenant is considered part of the PORTAL Program. The PORTAL philosophy is a
commitment to growth, wherever a woman might in the stages of change, and in readiness to move beyond
Deborah’s Place housing. This programming is aimed at all DP tenants with a special focus on preparing
those who are interested for life in housing that may not include the level of services that Deborah’s Place
provides.
Assessment
• Initial assessment – individual
o Assessment should include current tenancy strengths and issues:
 On-time payment of rent
 Neighbor relations
 Housekeeping
 Problem-solving skills
 Stages of change
• Individual service plan
• Signed commitment for those who wish to seek other housing resources
Individualized Guidelines and Opportunities
• Individual case management:
o Monitor service plan
o Assess tenant strengths and resources
o Offer resources
o Update assessment regularly
• Employment services (if indicated in service plan):
o Individual assessment
o Participation in at least one employment services group/activity
o Referrals and follow-up
• Health services (if indicated in service plan):
o Individual assessment
o Participation in at least one individual or group health activity
o Referrals and follow-up
Skills of Daily Living and Problem-Solving
• Work with case management on individual issues
• Budgeting Group – Juanita, Makeba, interns
• Tenant Rights and Responsibilities Group - Carla
• Neighbor Relations Group
• Seeking Safety Group - Beverly
• Crisis Problem-Solving Group
• Housing Search and Assessment including Subsidies
1

2. Humanities and Critical Thinking
• Philosophy and application to every-day life
• Literature applied to change, movement, goal-seeking and relationships with those around us
• Personal Growth – through history, literature, art, philosophy, psychology
• Relationships in Drama and Art
Phase V: Move-Out Preparation
• Housing Inspection – Housing Assessment Tool
• Budgeting for Life Outside of DP
• Preparing for the Move:
o Packing
o Movers – DP will look for discount movers
o Utility Set-Up
o Security Deposits and Move-In Costs
• Connecting to the Community:
o Individual Referrals
o Group
• Start-Up Kits: canned goods, paper towels, extension cord, mop, broom, lamp, plunger, toilet
paper, cleaning supplies, sanitary supplies, air mattress & pump (Items can be stored at Marah’s)
Programming for Former Tenants:
• Home visits: Monthly for six months, then as needed – Intern or any staff
• Access to Case Management, Educational Services, Employment Services, Health Services and
Counseling through 2822 and/or 1530 Learning Centers
• Graduate Group - Monthly
• Alumni Gatherings – Twice per Year
2