City Mission's HEIRS Model: Empowering Transformation through Holistic Care

In a previous blog post, we provided an overview of the HEIRS model's history and background. In this article, we shift our focus to the unique aspects of the HEIRS components, highlighting their critical role in addressing the diverse needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. By examining each element in detail, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the HEIRS model guides our programs and fosters lasting change.

The Significance of the HEIRS Model:

What sets City Mission apart is our unwavering commitment to achieving tangible results for those who turn to us for help. While we recognize the importance of providing immediate necessities like housing and meals, which are often the first steps to life-transformation, our focus extends beyond these essential services. The HEIRS Model allows us to measure outcomes, track progress, and continuously improve our programs. By prioritizing results, we can effectively break the cycle of homelessness and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

Upon intake, we evaluate each of our residents according to the five areas of the HEIRS model, which are explained in detail below. Based on that initial evaluation, we create an individualized plan for each resident and connect them to services designed to address each need. Then, we re-evaluate them every 90 days and track their progress, helping them become successful in each area of their lives and giving them the confidence to create a better life.

Housing: Stable Shelter as a Foundation

The "H" in the HEIRS model represents "Housing." Housing is a fundamental component of our approach to addressing homelessness and is recognized as a critical step towards stability and independence.

Within the HEIRS model, the focus on housing goes beyond providing a temporary shelter. City Mission is dedicated to connecting residents to safe, stable, and supportive housing options that empower individuals to rebuild their lives. The goal is to create an environment where people can thrive and make progress towards their personal and professional goals.

At City Mission, we provide safe, secure housing for our residents while they are with us, so they have the opportunity to focus on their own recovery without worrying about where they will sleep or where their next meal will come from. As they stabilize in all areas of their life, we begin to help connect them to permanent housing: whether that means helping them navigate the process of applying for subsidized housing or gaining employment and saving up for their own place, we help to guide them into the housing situation that best matches their life goals.

By addressing the immediate need for housing and providing ongoing support, City Mission aims to break the cycle of homelessness and equip individuals with the tools and resources they need to achieve long-term stability.

Employment: Building Pathways to Sustainable Work

Employment is a key element in breaking the cycle of homelessness, as it provides individuals with the opportunity to gain a stable income, improve their financial situation, and regain their independence. We believe that sustainable employment is instrumental in fostering long-term stability and self-sufficiency for the individuals and families we serve.

Our approach to employment within the HEIRS model is comprehensive, encompassing a range of initiatives and services designed to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to succeed in the job market.

Through our Career Training and Education Center, we ensure that individuals are equipped with essential skills and prepared to confidently enter the workforce. These programs cover a variety of topics, including resume writing, interview techniques, workplace etiquette, and job search strategies. By providing tailored workshops and individualized coaching, we empower individuals to navigate the job market with confidence and competence.

To improve employability, we offer online courses and career-enhancing certifications through our local library as well as hands-on vocational skills development programs that focus on honing specific job-related skills. Participants have the opportunity to receive job training within all aspects of our organization that best match their work aspirations or previous work experience. Residents can gain valuable job skills in food services, office administration, warehouse work, janitorial, and other fields. Our goal is to align training opportunities with local employment needs and individual interests, ensuring that individuals are equipped with in-demand skills.

We firmly believe that by addressing the employment needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, we can empower them to break free from the cycle of poverty, regain their self-sufficiency, and thrive in their communities.

Income: Financial Stability for Long-Term Success

The "I" in our HEIRS model stands for "Income," reflecting our recognition of the critical role that financial stability and income play in helping individuals rebuild their lives. We are dedicated to helping people secure and manage sustainable income that supports their journey toward independence and long-term stability.

Income is more than just a paycheck—it represents the means by which individuals can meet their basic needs, afford housing, access healthcare, and support themselves and their families. Our focus on the "Income" component within the HEIRS model aims to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to achieve financial well-being and break free from the cycle of poverty.

We assist residents in applying for public assistance benefits, veterans benefits, or disability benefits as appropriate for those who need it. A crucial first step for many of our residents in this process is obtaining identification credentials or replacing them if they have been lost. Acquiring a valid drivers' license, social security card, or birth certificate is a difficult by vital first step, and we have developed a program to walk our residents seamlessly through the process.

We also provide financial literacy and money management programs that equip individuals with the tools to make informed financial decisions. Our workshops cover topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and financial planning. By fostering financial literacy, we empower individuals to develop healthy financial habits, set realistic goals, and effectively manage their income to meet their needs both now and in the future.

Recovery: Overcoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Medical Barriers, and Mental Health Issues

The "R" in our HEIRS model stands for "Recovery," a vital element in our holistic approach at City Mission. We recognize that people experiencing homelessness often face significant obstacles in the form of medical barriers, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction, hindering their path to independence. Consequently, we are dedicated to addressing these challenges head-on and providing unwavering support to individuals on their journey toward recovery.

Upon entering our program, individuals undergo a thorough assessment to evaluate their specific needs and identify any barriers related to mental health or drug and alcohol addiction. We offer an array of services, both on our campus and in collaboration with external treatment providers, to address these challenges effectively. Our primary objective is to connect individuals with the appropriate resources and treatment modalities, enabling them to overcome addiction or mental health barriers and establish a solid foundation for sustained recovery.

While on our campus, individuals have access to a variety of support mechanisms, including group sessions, educational classes, and participation in 12-step recovery programs. We believe that recovery can take many forms, and our approach aims to provide individuals with diverse avenues to address their addiction and regain control of their lives.

Upon intake, residents also receive a medical screening at our Medical Clinic. From that point, as needed, we help them acquire medical insurance, schedule medical appointments, find transportation to appointments, manage medications, and gain access to a primary care provider through our partnership with Centerville Clinics.

For those who struggle with homelessness, these barriers can often be overwhelming if they try to overcome them alone. Surrounding them with love and support can revitalize their confidence in these areas and lead to life-changing breakthroughs in their recovery.

Spirituality: Nurturing the Inner Journey

Spirituality is a cornerstone of the HEIRS model at City Mission, recognizing the profound impact it has on an individual's journey to recovery and overall well-being. We acknowledge that spirituality is a deeply personal and unique aspect of each person's life, encompassing beliefs, values, and the search for meaning and purpose.

The spiritual component of the HEIRS model encourages individuals to commit their lives to Christ, connect with their Heavenly Father, seek spiritual guidance in their walk of faith, and discover sources of inspiration and strength. It offers an opportunity for self-reflection, introspection, and the exploration of values that can guide individuals towards a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

Within our Christ-centered program, individuals have the opportunity to build a life-saving relationship with Jesus Christ and to engage in activities that nurture their spiritual well-being. These may include chapel services, Bible studies, group devotionals, prayer groups, spiritual counseling, mindfulness practices, or participation in faith-based programs. We also foster an atmosphere of acceptance, respect, and non-judgment, allowing individuals to freely express and explore their spiritual beliefs without fear of prejudice or exclusion.

Measuring Success with the HEIRS Model:

City Mission is committed to delivering measurable results through the HEIRS Model. We track success by monitoring housing stability, employment retention, income growth, recovery milestones, and spiritual development. This data-driven approach enables us to evaluate the effectiveness of our programs, make informed adjustments, and ensure that individuals receive the support they need for long-term success.

Our HEIRS Model is a testament to our dedication to transforming the lives of homeless individuals. By addressing the components of Housing, Employment, Income, Recovery, and Spirituality, we offer a holistic approach that empowers individuals to overcome barriers and achieve lasting independence.

Your support can make a life-changing difference for individuals on their journey to recovery and independence. By donating to City Mission, you can directly contribute to the success of our residents and help transform lives.

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June 22, 2023

Grand Opening!

July 3, 2025

On Tuesday, July 8, City Mission will be hosting a Grand Opening for our newest City Mission Thrift Store located at 36 East Pike Street in Canonsburg. The Grand Opening ceremony will be held at 9:00am at the new store. The ceremony will include a prayer of dedication, a ribbon-cutting, refreshments, raffle baskets, and store discounts for shoppers. About a year ago, City Mission had to close its former Canonsburg location. Fortunately, they have been able to relocate to a different building just down the road. Lisa Scamazzi, a long-time friend, supporter, and volunteer at the Mission has been instrumental in helping the new store get up and running. “The City Mission Thrift Store is one of our flagship stores in downtown Canonsburg,” Scarmazzi said. “We are so excited about this new location. It’s going to be transformational in town. The setup is wonderful. The people are wonderful. Folks that come in are going to be completely surprised by the quality and the items that are there.”All of the proceeds from City Mission’s seven Thrift Stores support the life-changing programs and services for the homeless residents at the Mission. “You can go to our Thrift Stores and donate your unneeded items,” said City Mission President and CEO, Diana Irey Vaughan. “Through our best stewardship, we resell those items and then that money can help us continue the life-transformational programming that takes place on our campus at City Mission.”Visit www.citymission.org/stores for more information about City Mission’s Thrift Store operations.

A Remarkable Transformation

June 9, 2025

Ten years ago, on June 9, 2015, a devastating fire tore through City Mission’s campus, destroying the chapel, kitchen, dining hall, medical clinic and men’s dormitories. In that time of loss and extreme need, the community rallied to support City Mission in extraordinary ways. Donations poured in: monetary gifts, food donations, clothing donations for City Mission residents who had lost all their possessions in the fire. It was a remarkable show of support that laid the groundwork for an unprecedented transformation of the City Mission campus. This morning, City Mission hosted a chapel service at The Porter Pillow and Peggie Beaver-Pillow Chapel for its residents and employees. The event included a short video highlighting the effects of the fire and the transformation that occurred over the last ten years. City Mission Director of Residential Programs, Leah Dietrich, added remarks about the restorative and healing power of God. “While many people may not have been fully aware of the Mission’s work, the day of the fire brought significant attention to the shelter across our region,” said President/CEO, Diana Irey Vaughan. “The outpouring of initial support validated former President/CEO Dean Gartland’s vision of expanding services and developing the campus into a holistic resource for addressing the complex challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. With each phase of growth, our donors have played a crucial role in turning that vision into reality.” Because of the community’s foundational support after the fire and continued partnership over the past ten years, City Mission has been able to expand remarkably and give back to the community in extraordinary ways: • Increased shelter capacity from 96 to 174 beds • Built a commercial-grade kitchen (2017) that served 84,912 meals to residents and the community last year • Opened the Ansys Career Training & Education Center (2017), which helped 129 individuals obtain jobs last year • Launched the Crabtree-Kovacicek Veterans House (2018), a 22-bed shelter for homeless veterans • Built the City Mission Medical Clinic, which was able to provide 14,319 medical services in 2024 • Expanded the Women with Children Center (2018), offering 11 fully furnished apartments with on-site childcare • Opened Sally’s House (2022), a 15-bed shelter for single women in the Next Step program. • And this September 2025, City Mission plans to open a new 50-bed Women’s Shelter—a sanctuary of healing, hope, and fresh starts. The opening of this facility will raise our total bed capacity from 174-210. • In 2024, 150 individuals successfully moved out of City Mission and into independent living, moving from homeless to hopeful “I am deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support from our community,” said Vaughan. “Time and again, our donors’ generous spiritual and financial support has ensured that we never faltered in our mission to provide food, shelter, and hope to those in need. Our doors have remained open, the tables have remained full, and hearts have remained uplifted.”

Eagle Scout Fundraiser

April 30, 2025

Noah Hickman is a Freshman at Canon-McMillan High School. He loves playing sports, creating online videos, and volunteering with his family and his church. Noah is a member of Boy Scout Troop 1313 in McMurray and is currently working to attain the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement a Boy Scout can attain. As part of this process, Noah is planning, organizing, and leading his Scout Troop in a community service project to benefit the residents of our Crabtree Kovacicek Veterans House. “This project will support citizens of the United States who once risked their own lives for our freedom,” Noah explained, “but who currently are not in the best times of their lives and need our help.” Noah has been in the Boy Scouts since he was in sixth grade, and before that, he started with the Cub Scouts in first grade. “My favorite thing about the Boy Scouts,” Noah said, “is that it’s all scout-run. The scouts run the meetings and decide what projects to work on. The scouts also keep you busy with things that seem hard at first but are worth it in the end. And you learn something through that. You get life experiences that you probably wouldn’t get anywhere else.” Noah and his Scout Troop have officially launched their project, which will run throughout the summer. In addition to volunteering on our campus, they are leading a donation drive and a fundraiser to support our homeless veterans. If you’d like to partner with the Boy Scouts in helping our veterans, you can go here to donate items that our veterans need while staying at the Mission: https://sites.google.com/view/eaglescoutamazonwishlist/home You can go here to support the Boy Scout’s project by donating financially to our veterans program: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E333819&id=33 We are so grateful for Troop 1313’s compassion and commitment, and we are inspired to see the younger generation rise up and join the battle against homelessness, addiction, and poverty. “It makes me so happy to see the next generation getting involved with helping the homeless,” said City Mission Director of Residential Programs, Leah Dietrich. “It takes families to invest in their children so their children will learn to invest in their community.” From the bottom of our hearts, thank you Noah Hickman, Boy Scout Troop 1313, and everyone who responds to their call to support our ministry!

A Rising Concern

March 17, 2025

In recent years, a startling trend in homelessness has surfaced, and it’s hard to ignore. An increasing number of older adults are finding themselves without a home. In 2024, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, overall homelessness in the United States reached unprecedented levels, spiking by 18% compared to the previous year. Alarmingly, about 20%—or one in every five—of those facing homelessness are aged 55 and older. “Here at City Mission, we’re seeing an increase in older adults,” said City Mission Director of Residential Programs, Leah Dietrich, “and we have seen it rise over the past 10 years. Over the last few years, we’ve seen an even faster pace of growth.” Within the past year, 98 individuals aged 55 and over came through our doors as residents, which is approximately 1/3 of our overall resident population. But this rise in homelessness among older adults isn't just a statistic; it's a reflection of deep-seated issues that require immediate action. As we look deeper, the data tell a story of vulnerability, resilience, and a pressing need for change. Why Are Older Adults Becoming Homeless? The rise in homelessness among older adults is driven by a combination of complex factors. First, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, the US population aged 65 and over soared by 34% over the last decade, and our country is simply not prepared to provide housing, services, and care for this surging population. Additionally, many in this age range are on fixed incomes, which do not match the escalating cost of living, particularly healthcare and housing expenses. Research from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard highlights that the cost of long-term care is unaffordable for many seniors, and mortgage debt continues to burden an increasing number of older homeowners—30% of those aged 80 and over still have outstanding mortgages. Also, the median mortgage debt amount for older adults has skyrocketed more than 400% since 1989. “One of the challenges that lead older adults to come to us is lack of family support,” explained Dietrich. “Some have gone through a divorce later in life or have lost a loved one. They might need help managing their medications or taking care of everyday tasks. When their family member or support person leaves or passes away and they have no one left to help them, it can be overwhelming.” “Some of our older residents, who have worked their whole lives in trades, develop chronic health conditions or sustain injuries so they can no longer work,” added Dietrich. “They end up on a fixed income that simply can’t keep up with rising rent, taxes, and utility costs. One emergency or unexpected expense can lead to homelessness.” Social factors further complicate matters. Aging can lead to isolation from community and familial networks, worsened by physical mobility issues or chronic health conditions. This isolation makes older adults particularly susceptible to economic shocks and social withdrawal, which can ultimately lead to homelessness. “Older adults can lose their sense of community,” Dietrich added. “They can become disconnected or isolated due to divorce, loss of a loved one, loss of transportation, or loss of their work community. It’s important for us to restore their sense of community. We become the family they need to help them navigate an ever-changing world.” Do Not Cast Me Away When I Am Old Scripture urges us to honor and protect our older adults. Psalms 71:9 resonates deeply, reminding us: "Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone." This scripture highlights our responsibility to ensure the dignity and well-being of the elderly, affirming that they receive the support they need. The Bible consistently advocates for respect towards the elderly, as seen in Leviticus 19:32, which instructs, "Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord." We are called to be the hands and feet of God to provide care, support, and ncouragement. Through our actions and community efforts, we can embody the biblical ethos of support and respect for our elders, creating a nurturing environment that honors their contributions and upholds their dignity. Compassionate Care and Life-Changing Programs Addressing homelessness among older adults demands a comprehensive strategy that encompasses both immediate relief and long-term solutions. At City Mission, a Christ-centered rehabilitative shelter, we commit to transforming lives through a range of services including food, shelter, medical services, case management, Biblically-based counseling, and life-changing programs. Our approach is holistic, aiming to restore individuals fully by expressing God’s love in every action. Our goal is clear: to assist each person who comes to us in moving from crisis to stability. Through our extensive services and community resource connections, we strive to ensure sustained recovery and independence for every individual we serve. “We work to find community opportunities for our residents,” Dietrich said. “We know what resources are available and have the ability to connect them to what they need. They are looking for a sense of purpose and connection, and we can provide that.” Right now, we are focused on helping our older adults improve fitness, mobility, and overall health. Every weekday at 12:45, our staff hosts chair exercise sessions to help older adults learn to be active again. Cindy Newman, our Manager of Medical Services, helps our older adult residents navigate through issues associated with chronic health conditions, by helping them manage medications, embrace a healthier diet, make appointments with specialists, and understand the impact a diagnosis can have on their everyday lives. For our older adult residents, we are also focused on offering financial training and digital education. Volunteers come to the Mission regularly to provide budgeting classes and to answer in-depth questions that help our older residents feel confident making decisions that will restore them to independent living. We also offer computer training that helps older residents feel safer online and builds confidence as they navigate online banking, book medical appointments, and rebuild relationships with estranged friends and family, online at first, which can springboard into meaningful and fulfilling reconnections. “Our youngest residents and our oldest residents break my heart the most,” said Dietrich. “No 19-year-old and no 90-year-old should be homeless. People who outlive their family members who were taking care of them and now are without a home and a support system -- we have to do everything we can to help them!” How You Can Help City Mission City Mission remains steadfast in its commitment to helping older adults regain stability and dignity. Here’s how you can contribute to this cause: • Donate: Financial contributions support critical services such as healthcare, shelter, education, and food. • Volunteer: Your time is a valuable asset. Assisting with daily operations or engaging directly with residents can make a significant difference. • Advocate: Raise awareness about the challenges faced by homeless older adults. Sharing information, educating others, and advocating for policy changes are powerful ways to help. Join City Mission in the Fight Against Homelessness Addressing homelessness among older adults in Washington, PA, requires a committed and collective effort. By engaging in immediate actions, supporting long-term solutions, and educating ourselves and our community, we can effect meaningful change. Let’s unite to build a supportive and inclusive environment for every member of our community, reflecting the biblical principle of extending a hand to those in need, just as we are guided by our faith to support and uplift each other in times of need. Join us in making a difference. You can also send donations to the following address: 84 W. Wheeling Street, Washington, PA 15301. For more details on donations or if you have any questions, feel free to call us at (724) 222-8530.

Thank you, Cub Scout Pack 1313

Cub Scouts Pack 1313 at City Mission's Crabtree Kovacicek Veterans House

March 14, 2025

Thank you to the Arrow of Light scouts of Pack 1313 in McMurray! We are so grateful for their generosity and hard work in supporting the homeless veterans at City Mission! This amazing group of scouts, made up of 8 fifth-grade boys planned and organized a community service project for the Mission as part of their citizenship adventure. They reached out to us to find out what items we need. Then, they worked together to create a plan to fundraise enough money to purchase all the items on our needs list. They set a fundraising goal of $500 and decided to create a video to get the word out. They wrote their own script and enlisted help from the Lions (Kindergarten scouts) to assist in making the video and raising funds. "City Mission holds a special place in our hearts as we have volunteered there for many years," said Jenna Mallegol of Cub Scout Pack 1313. "The scouts wrote the script for the video themselves, and the parents sent it out via social media." The response to their fundraising efforts was overwhelming, and they were able to raise more than six times their initial goal! In total, they raised $3,200. With that money, they purchased everything on our needs list and more: clothing for 30 veterans, toiletries, snacks, and coffee. They also purchased pizza for a pizza party with our veterans. And they had enough left over to make a very generous $2,000 donation to City Mission! Thank you, Pack 1313, for showing what kindness, leadership, and teamwork can accomplish to make the world a little brighter place. Your support means so much to City Mission and the veterans we serve.

A Year of Hope and Progress

February 27, 2025

A Year of Hope and Progress: Reflecting on 2024 at City Mission As we close the chapter on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible strides we’ve made together. This year has been marked by hope, progress, and an unwavering commitment to our mission of serving the homeless and vulnerable in our community. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our staff, and the resilience of our residents, we have achieved milestones that will have a lasting impact for years to come. Breaking Ground on New Beginnings A major highlight of 2024 was the groundbreaking of Sally’s Sanctuary, our new 50-bed shelter for homeless women. This project, years in the making, represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide safe, supportive spaces for those in need. We also celebrated the completion of the Finish Strong Campaign, which enabled us to finalize the New Market Tax Credit and move forward with this critical project. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our donors, staff, and community partners, who continue to make our work possible. The year also brought a transition in leadership. We welcomed our new President/CEO, Diana Irey Vaughan, whose vision and passion have already brought fresh energy to City Mission. At the same time, we bid farewell to Dean Gartland and Sally Mounts, two extraordinary leaders whose decades of service have left an indelible mark on our organization. Their legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward. Community events like Gather & Give and Sweet Sunday, which saw record-breaking participation, reminded us of the incredible power of community. Of course, the year was not without its challenges. Balancing the demands of a capital campaign with our day-to-day operations required careful planning and difficult decisions. But thanks to the dedication of our staff and the generosity of our donors, we are confident that the steps we’ve taken will set us up for a strong and sustainable future. Key Achievements in 2024 In 2024, City Mission’s programs and services provided hope, healing, and a pathway to independence for many individuals. Here are some of the key achievements that made the year so special: • Meals: Our Food Service team served 84,912 meals, valued at over $211,430, to residents and community members in need. • Career Training and Education: Through the ANSYS Career Training and Education Center (CTEC), residents gained the skills and certifications needed for sustainable employment. In 2024, we celebrated: o 129 jobs obtained o 498 ID cards issued o 1,898 certifications earned • Medical Services: Our Medical Clinic provided 14,319 services, including 647 physician visits and 978 health screens, ensuring residents had access to critical healthcare. Partnerships with organizations like Centerville Clinics allowed us to offer comprehensive care, empowering residents to take control of their health. The success of these programs is reflected in our HEIRS success rates for residents who stayed 90+ days: • Men: 57% overall success rate • Women: 72% overall success rate • Women with Children: 57% overall success rate (with a 100% housing success rate) • Veterans: 88% overall success rate Celebrating Transformation Through Divine Grace Stories like Herman’s, who found stable employment and housing after entering our men’s program, and Krystine’s, who overcame addiction and became a leader in our women’s program, remind us of the transformative power of God’s work through City Mission’s in 2024. These stories are not just successes; they are testimonies to the miraculous impact of faith and God's grace in action. Join Us in Shaping the Future of City Mission As we look ahead, we are filled with hope and determination. The completion of Sally’s Sanctuary in July 2025 will mark a transformative milestone in our mission to serve homeless women with dignity and compassion. This state-of-the-art facility will provide a safe, welcoming space for women, but it is just one part of our broader commitment to addressing homelessness in all its forms. From providing meals and medical care to offering career training and addiction recovery programs, City Mission continues to serve individuals and families in need. Our work extends beyond shelter—it’s about restoring dignity, fostering independence, and building brighter futures. But our work is far from over. We still need your help to fully fund Sally’s Sanctuary and continue providing essential services to those who rely on us. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, your support makes all the difference. For more information on how you can get involved, visit our Ways to Help page or call us at 724-222-8530. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please reach out to our support team.

HEIRS Model: Empowering Transformation through Holistic Care