Highlights of the 2023-2024 Hypothermia Transition Program

As we are in the throes of record heat, it is hard to remember the dangers of the winter months for men experiencing homelessness.

From November 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024, the McKenna Center housed 12 men ages 34 to 63 in our Hypothermia Transition Program. Each night, the McKenna Center provided our guests with a clean bed, shower, case management, and breathing room to get their life in order in a predictable environment. Nine of the 12 Hypothermia Transition Program guests completed the program, with 7 guests now in stable housing and 8 guests employed. One guest never had a primary care physician until the McKenna Center connected him with one.

The McKenna Center does not shy away from serving men with serious challenges. Ten program guests suffered from drug ort alcohol addiction and/or mental health disorders. The McKenna Center staff helped many of our guests get a mental health assessment and treatment that enabled them to succeed. Despite the challenges, these men changed their lives.

Many thanks to the Gonzaga Mothers Club whose members provided a home-cooked meal for our guests each night. They and their families joined the men for dinner which reintroduced them to family interactions.