Frequently Asked Questions about Jerusalem House
What is your Mission Statement?
Jerusalem House believes Housing is Healthcare for homeless and low-income individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS and leads the Atlanta community to meet the needs of this population.
Is Jerusalem House a religious organization?
Jerusalem House was founded by a multidemoninational group of Atlanta's community leaders and we receive donations from many different faith groups in our commuity. However, Jerusalem House is not a religious organization.
Why are you called Jerusalem House?
Jerusalem House was originally just one house for 5 homeless individuals with AIDS, in the days when AIDS was considered a death sentence. The founders of Jerusalem House envisioned a peaceful oasis where these individuals could die with dignity; the word "Jerusalem" means "dwelling of peace." After a successful fundraising campaign, we were able to add an annex to the original house, creating 23 efficiency apartments.
Today, with access to medication, most individuals with HIV/AIDS are able to live long and healthy lives. Jerusalem House has evolved by creating the Family Program, with 12 apartments for single mothers and their school age children on a campus, and the Scattered Site I Program, with 32 apartments "scattered" in complexes across metro Atlanta. The Scattered Site II Program, launched in 2009, allows us to additionally serve low-income, not only homeless, individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS in 71 units of housing throughout the city of Atlanta.
Is Jerusalem House a United Way agency?
No, Jerusalem House is not a United Way agency.
Where are your programs located?
The Jerusalem House programs are located in Atlanta, Georgia.
How do people apply for residency?
Applicants for housing with Jerusalem House are referred through Living Room, a housing information and referral program for low-income individuals and families who are homeless and affected by HIV/AIDS. Contact Living Room at 404-616-6332. Documentation of homelessness and HIV status is required. Residents are selected without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin or ancestry. Residency requirements can be found here.
How can I volunteer?
Our volunteer application package is available online or you may contact our Volunteer Manager at (404) 377-3443 for more information. Volunteers must complete an interview, undergo a criminal background check, and attend an orientation session before they may volunteer. Orientation sessions are provided for groups planning to volunteer at Jerusalem House on an ongoing basis, but are not required for groups coming on a one-time basis. You must be over age 18 to volunteer at Jerusalem House.
How do I find out about employment opportunities with Jerusalem House?
Employment opportunities at Jerusalem House are posted at Opportunity Knocks.
How are you funded?
Funding is provided in part by the City of Atlanta's Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program, a community development project of the City of Atlanta funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as ammended. Additional funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners under the guidance of the Human Services Development Grant Program. The agency's programs are also funded by grants from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and DeKalb County. Corporate, foundation, individual, and faith community giving comprise the rest of our annual operating budget. Detailed financial information can be found here.
Do all the residents have AIDS?
All of the residents at the Program for Adults have AIDS. The mothers at the Family Program and the residents in the Scattered Site Programs must be HIV+ to qualify for residency.
Do the children have AIDS?
We have had several HIV+ children at Jerusalem House since the Family Program opened in 1997.
Do residents work or pay rent?
Some of our residents have income through some form of work (jobs, peer counseling, child support, or government assistance); others are too ill to work (either because of the disease, side effects of medications, mental health, etc.). Residents who generate an income are required to pay 1/3 of their income for rent.
How long have you been operating?
Our first facility opened in 1989, and the Family Program facility followed in 1997. The Scattered Site I Program began in 2003. The Scattered Site II Program launched in 2009.
How long can people stay at Jerusalem House?
Jerusalem House runs permanent housing programs. While there is no restriction on duration of residency, if it is determined that a resident is able to live independently, we work with the individual to achieve this goal.
Are you a hospice?
No, we are not a hospice and do not provide hospice care. Residents must be able to live on their own when they come to Jerusalem House. Within that guideline, we do try to admit the most medically needy applicants into the program.
What services does Jerusalem House provide its residents?
The services provided vary depending on the resident population. Jerusalem House strives not to duplicate resources available in the community and partners with many other organizations to provide services. Among the services currently offered are tutoring for the children and adults, support groups, substance abuse counseling, and health services.
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