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, nurturing and pain-free home at Serenity Court in which to live out their final days.

In order to achieve our goals for residents of Serenity Court, 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.  

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.

Activities-Serenity Court residents are always invited to participate in events planned for Independence Place residents, to the extent they wish and are physically able. Special activities for Serenity Court are planned with the physical limitations and energy levels of residents in mind.

Spiritual Services- Calcutta House works with volunteer religious leaders to provide Serenity Court residents with the spiritual counseling and guidance they desire. Some residents also have access to spiritual services through the external hospice care they receive as part of their personal health benefits.

Social Services- Our Social Services department helps residents to access all medical and legal benefits for which they are eligible. Residents are referred to legal counselors to arrange for wills, care of dependents and powers of attorney, should they become incapacitated. Social Services personnel also help residents to arrange affairs with regard to their families, to establish or maintain contact and organize appropriate private visiting time.