Organizational Purpose

SCARP is revamping its focus to prioritize the veteran population. We continue to advocate for Restorative Justice, social justice, underserved communities, mental health, and those who are impacted by the criminal justice system. Homeless veterans and individuals with co-occurring disorders (CODs) of severe mental illness and substance use disorder are one of the most vulnerable populations. SCARP plans to provide practitioners with a framework and strategies for assisting this segment of the population. Four components emerged from SCARP’s inception in 2013:

Ensuring an effective transition for individuals with CODs from an institution (e.g., hospital, foster care, prison, or residential program) into the community. A crucial component for clients who were previously homeless, impoverished, or at-risk of homelessness.
Increasing the resources of homeless individuals with CODs by helping them apply for veteran's entitlements and employment opportunities.
Linkinghomeless individuals to supportive housing, including Housing First options as opposed to treatment-first options, while providing wrap-around services.
Engaging homeless individuals in COD treatment, incorporating modified assertive community treatment, motivational interviewing, cognitive—behavioral therapy, contingency management, and COD specialized self-help groups.