Transforming Lives: How Shelter’s Healthcare Initiative Empowers Homeless Patients – The Garden Island

The Aala medical respite shelter on North King Street is making a real difference for some of Oahu’s homeless. In just nine months, this shelter has welcomed and treated over 140 patients, including many elderly individuals facing severe health issues. The shelter has helped 14 people reconnect with their families and six others return to the mainland.

The Aala shelter has 62 beds, including tiny homes and indoor treatment spaces. It serves those in desperate need, including:

• Elderly individuals in their 70s and 80s with Alzheimer’s and dementia, who are especially vulnerable on the streets.
• People who have had multiple strokes or heart attacks.
• Those with untreated diabetes, experiencing serious spikes in their blood sugar.
• Patients requiring regular dialysis.
• Individuals battling lifelong addictions, like Dante Ladines, who struggled with meth.

Dante’s life was marked by hardship. After a tough childhood and years of addiction, he faced severe health issues, including strokes and heart disease, yet felt hopeless about his situation. His journey took a turn when shelter workers, recognizing his need for better care, referred him to Aala.

At Aala, he was diagnosed with health conditions requiring attention. Although he struggled with addiction during his stay, he eventually agreed to outpatient treatment. He now reflects on his experience positively, saying that it has transformed his outlook on life.

Reuniting patients with their families is a priority at Aala. In many cases, this takes two to three months. The process starts with staff gathering medical histories and family contacts, then reaching out to loved ones to inform them about their relatives’ progress in treatment. This initiative aims to mend relationships that may have been strained by past issues, including addiction and mental health struggles.

Dr. Scott Miscovich, who leads the shelter, emphasizes that simply addressing homelessness isn’t enough. Many residents have faced significant trauma and health challenges that contribute to their situations. “Homelessness won’t go away without providing real care,” he explains. His goal is to ensure those seeking help receive the necessary support, instead of being left on the streets.

In addition to medical care, the shelter also strives to prepare patients for life beyond their stay. Some innovative solutions at Aala include using technology to track vulnerable seniors and providing ongoing mental health support through counseling and group meetings.

Charlotte “Shorty” Marquez is another success story. After a troubled childhood and a life filled with challenges, she found stability at the Aala shelter. Since checking in, she has become a role model for others, leading Narcotics Anonymous meetings and focusing on her recovery.

The Aala shelter represents a new way of tackling homelessness in Hawaii. With support from local leaders, it has the potential to change how the community approaches the issue. The shelter provides continuous medical care, with doctors and psychiatric technicians available round the clock, making it a unique resource in the state.

While the shelter currently faces challenges, such as limited space and growing demand, its innovative approach reflects a commitment to addressing the root causes of homelessness. With ongoing support and a vision for expansion, the Aala shelter aims to continue its important work, offering hope and care to those in need.

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