WISH LIST $150: 2 microwaves or 1 new TV; $500: 1 brand new refrigerator for a housing unit; $1000: a washer/dryer set for 1 affordable home

Housing Unlimited, Inc originated as a grassroots effort by members of the Alliance for the Mentally Ill in Montgomery County. Many were parents of people with psychiatric disabilities who saw a need for permanent housing that would allow their adult children to live independently. Beginning with one house and five tenants in 1995, HUI now operates 30 affordable houses, serving 98 adults with serious psychiatric disabilities; 250 more are on the waitlist. Separating housing from mental health – tenants choose their own healthcare – HUI focuses on training and educating residents about the privileges and obligations of being a tenant. Weekly house visits by staff, financial incentives for cleanliness, and special attention to thoughtful requests for property improvements, all keep tenants engaged in their own housing. HUI staff includes qualified, outstanding former tenants, and tenants can be interns, too – carrying out administrative, public education, and property management responsibilities. Leadership and social skills emerge, and self-esteem along with them. Your contribution helps people with mental illness live independently – and with dignity and pride.

Abe Schuchman, Executive Director 1398 Lamberton Drive, Suite G1 Silver Spring, MD 20902 301-592-9313 www.housingunlimited.org