The PLWA provides transitional housing for people living with aids who may be chemically
dependent

4 secure, self contained, 4 room suites on the 4th and 5th floors of the simmons , provide single occupancy rooms in class "a" units

Each suite is complete with kitchen, lounge and a bathroom

Services are provided by an interdisciplinary team of professionals composed of:
Program Director
Case Manager
Health Practitioner
Housing Specialist
Leisure Time Activities Specialist
Entitlement Specialist

There are three phases to the program:
Intake And Orientation
Stabilization
Discharge Planning

Program services include:
Acupuncture Referrals As Needed
Ongoing Assessment and Service Planning
Individual And Group Therapy
Peer Support and AA Meetings
Medication Monitoring
Random Urine Screening
Behavioral Contracting
Referrals to Permanent and Supported Housing

Residents receive training in the areas of:
Medication/System Management
Substance Abuse Control
Resource/Entitlement Development
Health Services in Safe Sex, Hygiene and Nutrition
Independent Living Skills

Admission Criteria

Admission to the PLWA program will be determined during the screening process by the Admission Committee. This process includes completion and review of the referral package, an interview with case management staff, and approval by the Admission Committee.
Residents are referred by the HIV & Aids Services Administration (HASA). A written explanation will be provided to the referring agency in the event of a rejection.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Diagnoses with AIDS, - CDC criteria: 200 T cells +/ or presenting with an opportunistic infection;
2. Completion of TB referral form including TB history, negative chest x-ray, and three negative
sputums;
3. S.S.I. or Medicaid eligible;
4. Adaptive daily living skills;
5. Not in need of an intensive medical level of care requiring SNF/HRF services;
6. Capable of following directions and taking appropriate action for self-preservation in the event of an
7. Willingness to participate in a substance abuse program, including AA/NA and acupuncture, if
required.

The Simmons Residence for Single Adults will generally not admit anyone who is:
1. Presenting disruptive behavior, which could be dangerous to self or others;
2. In need of treatment for an acute, intercurrent illness, unless adequately treated and stabilized, in
which case admission may be considered;
3. Respirator-dependent;
4. Undergoing an acute psychotic episode;
5. In advanced stages of dementia.

For admission information contact:
Robin Cherry, Program Director
Phone: 212-690-0195
E-mail: rcherry@heritagehousing.org