Reading Exit Planning

Exit Planning

Objective:

Assist guests in preparing for their next steps by guiding them through the creation of an exit plan, which includes securing housing, employment, and necessary resources for their future. Provide emotional and spiritual support, ensuring they leave with a sense of hope, direction, and confidence.

Content Overview:

As a Host Minister serving as a Hospitaller, one of your critical responsibilities is to assist guests in transitioning from temporary residence in your care to a more permanent, stable living situation. This lesson will guide you in helping your guests create an exit plan, focusing on practical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of this transition.

1. Understanding the Exit Plan

An exit plan is a roadmap that outlines the steps a guest needs to take to move from your temporary care to their next phase of life. This plan includes:

• Finding Permanent Housing: Guiding guests in finding affordable, stable housing options.
• Securing Employment: Assisting guests in finding jobs or job-training programs.
• Identifying Resources: Connecting guests with community resources, such as healthcare, transportation, and social services.

2. Helping Guests Find Permanent Housing

Step-by-Step Guidance:

• Assess Housing Needs: Determine whether the guest requires low-income housing, shared housing, or another specific type of living arrangement. Each guest’s situation will be different, so a personalized approach is crucial.
• Research Housing Options: Assist guests in researching available housing options in your area. This could include public housing programs, rental assistance, or housing through non-profit organizations.
• Prepare for Rental Applications: Teach guests how to gather necessary documentation (proof of income, identification, references) for rental applications. Help them understand basic tenant rights and responsibilities.
• Biblical Support:
  "For I know the plans I have for you, says Yahweh, plans for peace and not for evil, to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11, WEB)

3. Securing Employment or Job Training

Employment Strategies:

• Resume Review and Job Applications: Help guests update their resumes and navigate job application processes. If applicable, provide access to computers for job searches or job application portals.
• Interview Preparation: Conduct mock interviews to prepare guests for the job market. Offer tips on professional attire, how to answer common questions, and follow-up etiquette.
• Explore Job Training Programs: Identify local job training or vocational programs that can enhance the guests' skills and employability.
• Biblical Support:
  "Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; and establish the work of our hands." (Psalm 90:17, WEB)

4. Identifying Community Resources

Connecting to Support Systems:

• Healthcare Services: Assist guests in finding affordable healthcare providers or signing up for healthcare programs if needed.
• Social Services: Help guests navigate public services such as food assistance, childcare, or welfare programs.
• Transportation Solutions: Identify reliable transportation options, including public transit, community ride services, or carpooling.
• Biblical Support:
  "Give justice to the weak and the fatherless. Maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed." (Psalm 82:3, WEB)

5. Providing Emotional and Spiritual Support

In addition to helping with practical logistics, offering emotional and spiritual support during the transition is vital. This ensures that your guests leave with a strong sense of hope, encouragement, and God’s presence in their lives.

Emotional Support:

• Listening and Empathy: Ensure your guests feel heard and supported emotionally. Moving on can be daunting, and offering a compassionate ear can help ease their fears.
• Building Confidence: Affirm your guests’ strengths and achievements during their stay. Help them see how far they’ve come, and remind them of their worth and capabilities.

Spiritual Support:

• Pray with and for Guests: Before their departure, gather for prayer. Ask for God’s provision and guidance as they move into the next chapter of their lives.
• Share Scripture for Encouragement: Provide Scriptures that encourage them to trust in God’s plan for their future and to lean on Him for strength.
• Connect to a Faith Community: If possible, connect them with a local church or small group that can provide ongoing spiritual support after they leave your care.
• Biblical Support:
  "Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them, for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:6, WEB)

6. Handling Emotional Challenges During Transitions

It’s natural for both the host minister and the guest to feel a range of emotions as the guest’s departure approaches. Help your guest process any feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, or sadness, and provide reassurance that they are not alone.

Guiding Through Grief and Anxiety:

• Encouraging Faith and Trust in God: Encourage guests to trust that God has a plan for them, even when they feel uncertain or afraid.
• Reassuring the Guest of Ongoing Support: While they may be leaving your home, let them know they can still reach out to you for prayer and guidance.

7. Planning for Future Success

As the guest’s departure draws near, work with them to set goals for the future. This will help them maintain focus and motivation as they transition to their new living situation.

Goal Setting:

• Short-Term Goals: Identify achievable goals for the first few weeks after leaving (e.g., securing housing, beginning a job, or completing a training program).
• Long-Term Goals: Help guests set realistic long-term goals, such as career advancement, further education, or financial independence.

8. Creating a Departure Plan

Departure Details:

• Clear Timeline: Establish a timeline for the guest’s departure, including important milestones such as securing housing or employment.
• Exit Process: Discuss the steps for a smooth exit, including returning any borrowed items, leaving the space in good condition, and arranging transportation.

Reflection and Prayer:

Before your guest leaves, reflect together on their journey and growth during their stay. Celebrate the progress made, offer encouragement for the next steps, and pray for God’s continued guidance in their life.

• Biblical Support:
  "Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6, WEB)

Reflection Questions for Host Ministers:

1. How can you best assist your guest in preparing for the transition to independent living?
2. What are the most important aspects of emotional and spiritual support that your guest may need during this time?
3. How can you ensure that your guest feels empowered and confident as they take their next steps?

Bible Reflection:

"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having all sufficiency in everything, may abound to every good work." (2 Corinthians 9:8, WEB)

As a Host Minister, your role in preparing guests for their future is more than just a practical task—it is a spiritual calling. By equipping them with the necessary tools and providing emotional and spiritual support, you are helping them to thrive and fulfill God’s plan for their lives.