Helping homeless men begin a new life. A program on Chicago's West Side provides substance abuse rehabilitation and...

The MARSEPH program, named for the two principal program collaborators--the Marillac Social Center and Saint Joseph Health Centers and Hospital--provides life and work skills to homeless men who visit a day shelter operated by the Marillac Social Center. Participants gain work experience at Saint Joseph. One of the most important aspects of the MARSEPH program is the removal of obstacles to the newly employed. Each MARSEPH participant receives housing assistance, a uniform, transportation to Saint Joseph Health Centers and Hospital, and a meal pass to the hospital's cafeteria. Through this assistance, the men can get off the streets, get to their jobs, be nourished, and look presentable. The MARSEPH program carefully monitors each participant's progress, to ensure his success. Case workers meet weekly with the men to discuss problems and concerns. Every week case workers also visit each participant's residence to monitor his living conditions and offer emotional support. At the end of the six-month training program, MARSEPH helps graduates find employment.