Supportive Housing; How this Case Manager offers a beacon of hope.

Gabrielle Morrison credits her family for pointing her towards a career in service of others. Three years ago, when she joined Shepherds of Good Hope, after graduating from the community and justice services at Algonquin College, she knew she had found the right place.

“My mother always worked in healthcare,” says Gabrielle. “I definitely got my nurturing nature from her.”

 After her first six months, working as a frontline worker, Gabrielle noticed a case manager position opportunity at Shepherds of Good Hope’s Hope Living residence in Kanata. She’s been there ever since.

“It’s a bit different every single day,” she says, of her work as a case manager. “My main tasks are intakes, helping people find a place with us.”

Referrals to supportive housing come from the shelter, the City of Ottawa residential services program and the Ministry of Health long term care program.

“It was mind boggling at first,” notes Gabrielle. “There are three programs within one program. But now I know them all very well.”

Working within a complex system that supports people experiencing homelessness presents its own challenges. Yet, thanks to Gabrielle’s training, personality, and leadership, she feels rewarded every day she is able to help someone feel welcomed, cared for and part of the community.

“I help our residents fill out applications for ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program), Old Age Security, and ACT (Assertive Community Treatment). Residents are taken to appointments, the wave pool, or sometimes they go out for ice cream or coffee. Getting out into the community is so good for our residents,” says Gabrielle.

Gabrielle works so closely with residents; she is able to share their challenges and triumphs.

“There was one person who arrived here in a wheelchair,” she recalls. “They were not able to walk and wasn’t very social at all. Now they barely use a walker or wheelchair. I see him doing laps around the parking lot!”

Supportive housing at all Shepherds locations is managed by dedicated people just like Gabrielle. Together they care for almost 300 people in five locations across the city.

“I’m so excited to come to work every single day,” says Gabrielle. “I tell my family and friends, if I could work here for the rest of my life, I would. I love the residents that much. I love the work I do.”