| Abstract: | Homelessness is caused both by structural and personal factors. Thus, comprehensive services are required to meet the complex needs of homeless persons. This article reviews case management and group work practice with homeless persons and argues that effective social work practice must incorporate both intervention methods. Integrated Program Development (IPD), a program framework for shelter services, is presented. A pilot project at the Salvation Army Family Haven in St. Louis, Missouri illustrates the costs and benefits of empowerment-oriented group work with homeless persons. Three approaches for establishing group work for homeless people are suggested. Each approach requires that group workers, with community organizing skills, be employed by social service administrators. |
