For those patients who are homeless, you can provide them with information about available resources, if they don't already know them. A listing is available for Michigan: Food and Shelter Resources

The Shelter Association of Washtenaw County has their own web site.

A number of homeless may refuse to use or go to shelters. They also may have a history with the shelter and not be welcome. You also need to know that many shelters have waiting lists for the beds available. Once the beds are full, others may be allowed to stay at the shelter but they have to sit up all night.

Shelters are not suitable discharge destinations for individuals who have serious medical problems or problems with mobility and function. Call and speak with shelters about what services they offer and what type of person they can accomodate. The Ann Arbor Shelter has a health clinic on site.

Washtenaw County CMH has a Project Outreach program. Workers in this program know and/or work with a number of homeless in the country who have dual diagnoses. You might want to check with the homeless person to see if they have a CMH or Outreach worker or to identify if a patient might be elgible for the program.

Several counties in Michigan, including Washtenaw County have Path Projects - (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) Check the list and contact the county program to see if the patient can take advantage of the services.