2021 COVID-19 AFFORDABLE AND SUPPORTIVE HOUSING SHARING AND INFORMATION SESSION 5

Loss and Grieving in Supportive Housing

The unexpected death of a supportive housing resident can be difficult for staff and residents to process. There’s the process of contacting the proper authorities, notifying the next of kin (if one exists), handling of property and personal belongings, and corresponding with friends, family, and caregivers all while maintaining the confidentiality and respect of the resident who passed away. In addition there’s the planning of a celebration of life/remembrance and supportive services staff’s role in supporting tenants through the loss of their fellow community member. This workshop will discuss the steps that property management staff need to take in processing the aftermath of a tenant’s death including who to contact and how to handle personal belongings. Additionally, the speakers will cover supportive services staff’s role in supporting tenants through grief and trauma, and how to work with tenants to prepare for end of life planning including advanced directives, wills, and next of kin.

Speakers:

Moderator – Tricia Tasto Levien, Supportive Housing Director, Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation

Krystal Cahill, Community Manager, ConAm Management Corporation

Bernie Casey, Resident Services Supervisor, Housing Innovation Partners

Public Administrator – TBD