Wellness Initiative

In a time when society often fixates on the immediate and acute concerns of individuals, there is a need to address the long term problem of mental well-being of homeless/low-income clients. Unfortunately, medicine today has adapted to this fast paced world by providing fast treatments which fail to target the roots of problems. Individuals are labeled as “broken,” and examined just as one would examine a broken household appliance. Many medical treatments neglect the benefits of investigating the patient’s mental state, which is just as valuable as addressing physical ailments.
To address the targeted homeless and low-income population’s need for mental health services, we should first define what “mental health” is exactly. We define it as “a state of well-being whereby individuals recognize their abilities, are able to cope with normal stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully, and make a contribution to their community.” To empower individuals and improve their well-being, self expression can be a very effective tool. Expression ranges from art and poetry to dance and meditation; it is an outlet for creativity which empowers individuals by acknowledging that everyone is an asset and can contribute through these media. It equalizes the parties involved, reciprocates great ideas, and encourages individuals to feel a positive sense of self.
Within the greater society, individuals in homeless and low-income populations are ignored and ostracized by society; their expression is one of the last rights that they can call their own. Encouraging homeless individuals to express their feelings can help them forget about their challenging situations and enable them to vent their frustrations towards society.

Project mission:

We plan to hold regular workshops at the Suitcase Youth and Women's Clinics where clients are able to express themselves and tap into their creativity. In conjunction with the workshops, we plan to hold semesterly exhibits featuring works and pieces by our clients.

Required resources:

1. Total project needs: $10,000

Links to other projects by the same organization:

• suitcaseclinic.org