SAN JOSE OBRERO MISSION

is an Interim Housing Program in Chicago providing 120-day residential and support services for adult men who are homeless. Although focused particularly on providing services for Spanish-speaking men, SJOM's services are offered on a non-discriminatory basis to men of all races, religions, sexual orientation, and national orgins. The primary goal of the program is to assist and support participants as they stabilize their lives as they prepare to move to permanent housing.

Program participants comment that they enjoy the "ambiente" and "convivencia" at the Mission, meaning that the atmosphere and sharing among staff and participants are pleasant and supportive. The food reminds many of home. In a setting where their language is spoken and their culture understood, Participants feel accepted and supported and, as a result, are better able to succeed in the hard work of moving toward stability in their lives. All of SJOM’s direct service staff have cross-cultural experience and are required to be bilingual in Spanish and English.