About Us

News at NECHV

NECHV Presents Housing First Model

New England Center and Home for Veterans Vice President of Human Services, Kristine DiNardo, and Director of the Veteran 360 Behavioral Health Programs, Rita Chapdelaine, recently presented NECHV’s successful transition to a Housing First model of care during a live webinar that was viewed nationwide.

In their presentation, DiNardo and Chapdelaine advised other organizations interested in implementing a Housing First model. They discussed the unique challenges that are part of integrating new service models into existing traditional models, such as quickly finding appropriate housing for Veterans, as well as ensuring the most vulnerable members of the community are supported during the transition.

Perseverance and a belief in the new model have brought great achievements. The change has led to opportunities to create individual service plans for Veterans, which has in turn fostered additional connection and trust between Veterans and service providers. Through this new model of care, NECHV has been able to successfully reduce the length of time Veterans need to reside in the Center, while allowing our clinicians to continue to provide supportive services. NECHV looks forward to continuing in our position as a leader in supportive services for Veterans as we help them overcome their challenges and achieve their goals of sustainable independent living.