The Creating Homes Initiative, a targeted, grassroots, local community, multi-agency collaborative operated by the DMHDD’s Office of Housing Planning and Development (OHPD), has

spearheaded the department’s expressed mission to develop and expand permanent housing options and services for people with mental illness.

Since it’s creation in August 2000 by DMHDD Commissioner Elisabeth Rukeyser and being set in motion by Marie Williams L.C.S. W., OHPD Director, this innovative initiative has been backed by local CHI community task forces—each with representatives from key community agencies including faith based, nonprofit, foundations, architects and homebuilders, advocacy groups, service providers, realtors and federal, state and local agencies concerned with housing development. As of October, over 1680 people have benefited from the housing options.

"One of my major priorities as Commissioner has been to create and expand a full continuum of affordable, safe and appropriate housing for people with mental illness," Rukeyser said. "I see it as an integral component to achieving and maintaining good mental health. We are doing what we said we’d do – help fulfill the dreams and needs of the people we serve."

The OHPD’s $2.5 million annual allocation, from the DMHDD, is combined with new federal, other state, and local funds to produce permanent housing options in the following categories:

• Homeownership
• Supervised group housing with 24-hour on-site care
• Partially supervised group housing
• Private/public market rental housing

In addition, these dollars have allowed for the hiring of seven regional housing facilitators. These facilitators enhance and expand housing options by acting as an extension of the OHPD statewide.

As of October, over $36 million has been contributed to the CHI.

Williams referred to the goal as a wonderful achievement that has been proven to be supported by countless individuals.

"This is what the advocates and Mental Health Planning Councils have wanted since day one," Williams said. " We have been able to produce a quality program, with the help of many people and organizations across the state, and we intend to make it a lasting success."

Aiding individuals in their quest for housing, the DMHDD has added a housing website complete with a Housing Resource Locator (HRC). The HRC is designed to help consumers and families find existing housing options. It contains a listing of state licensed facilities for group and semi-dependent living. The HRC, which is continually updated, also provides a link to independent and shared living resources.

Eli Lilly and Company recently honored CHI with the first place National Lily Reintegration Housing Award. The Lilly Reintegration Awards, presented October 12 in New York City, recognize healthcare professionals and patient advocates who have made outstanding contributions in helping people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder to reintegrate into their communities.