Our goal in providing shelter to those who come to live at Calcutta House is to insure that they receive whatever care and services they need to gain the greatest possible degree of health, stability, self-sufficiency, and self-determination toward returning to an independent life.  For those who are truly terminally ill, unable to benefit from AIDS treatments, we provide them with a safe, comfortable, and nurturing home in which to live out their final days, free of pain and in peace.  

In order to achieve our goals for residents, we provide the following services, tailored to meet the individual needs and desires of each resident:

 24-hour Nursing Care- Calcutta House employs a staff of registered and licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants and home health aides to provide around-the-clock care to residents. These professionals ensure that medications are administered on time, handle emergency health issues that arise, and provide emotional support, general personal care for residents unable to care for themselves, health education, and hospice care to those who are dying.

Food and Nutritional Counseling Services- Residents are served three hot balanced meals plus snacks tailored to their medical condition. Under the supervision of a registered dietitian, our kitchen staff is trained to prepare specialized diets to improve tolerance and absorption of medications, while insuring that meals are tasty, well-prepared and reflect the food preferences and dietary requirements of residents.

Housing- Providing shelter to homeless people with AIDS is central to Calcutta House’s mission. While we accept applications from all needy people with AIDS, a specific number of our beds (56%) are reserved especially for those who are homeless.

Laundry- Washers and dryers are located in both buildings for resident use. Laundry service is provided for those physically unable to do their laundry. 

Transportation- Wheel chair accessible van service is provided to and from medical, social service appointments, and all activities. 

Addiction Counseling- Our counselors provide assessment of residents with a history of addiction, participate in an interdisciplinary treatment team, provide individual and group counseling as needed, and conduct staff training. Calcutta House works aggressively with residents coping with recovery to better prepare them for living independently. Experience has shown that the most significant cause of former residents not making a successful transition to independent living is their relapse into substance abuse.

Occupational Therapy- Our occupational therapist works with residents to increase physical ability, manual dexterity, strength and stamina, and cognitive capabilities.  Here, our experience demonstrates that with greater ability, residents’ esteem is significantly boosted helping them to bridge the chasm between dependence and independence

Massage Therapy- A licensed massage therapist is available for residents who suffer from cramping and muscle ailments that can develop from taking harsh AIDS medications.  Other residents, with significant circulation impairment also benefit significantly from massage therapy as do those with neuropathy, amputations and other impairment affecting ambulation.

Psychiatric Care- A licensed psychiatrist evaluates prospective residents prior to admission to help to determine their suitability for life in the Calcutta House community. Those who are admitted continue to be evaluated and followed routinely by our psychiatrist to see that their mental health needs are being effectively addressed, and their medications monitored. When appropriate, residents may be referred to appropriate area practitioners for intensive, long-term outpatient therapy.

Social Services- Our social workers provide ongoing case management and psychosocial services including individual and group counseling, family support services, and assistance with referrals and placement for needed outpatient services, as well as assistance in finding appropriate independent housing when a resident is ready and able to move on.

Activities- Our recreational therapist organizes events, outings, trips and in-house activities for our residents. Therapeutic activities are coordinated with the treatment team so that they teach necessary life skills in preparation for independent housing and living. Calcutta House organized activities include trips to concerts, recreational parks and sporting events, and holiday parties and events. Volunteers provide services such as arts, crafts and music therapy, games, personal reflexology and spiritual services.  Still others host parties, prepare holiday meals and help in many other ways.

The Construction of Independence  Place                                                                                         Resident Life at Independence Place