Max’s Place & Susan’s Place
These two programs provide permanent supportive housing for single adults who have serious and persistent mental health challenges, previously lived on the streets, and were resistant to services. Max’s Place was the first “safe haven” program in Fairfax County, initiated by New Hope Housing in 1998. New Hope Housing began operating Susan’s Place, an already established program, in 2008; it was the agency’s first program in Arlington County. These programs use a “housing first” approach, with emphasis on getting individuals off the streets and into safe housing. Over time staff work to build trust and engagement so that residents will link to services such as health care, mental health, disability services, etc. On-site staffing is provided 24/7.
Gartlan House
Gartlan House provides permanent supportive housing for eight chronically homeless adult men. Modeled after Max’s Place and Susan’s Place, the program serves residents able to function well with only up to eight hours of on-site daily support. Gartlan House opened in spring 2008, and is named after Virginia State Senator Joseph V. Gartlan, Jr., who was a forceful advocate for the needs of disabled and homeless persons throughout his life.