Grievance Process

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The Emerging Light Reentry and Transitional Housing Program (ELRTHP) is committed to providing a supportive and respectful environment for all residents. To uphold this commitment, a clear and accessible grievance process is established, allowing residents to voice their concerns and seek resolution in a constructive manner. This process ensures that all grievances are addressed fairly, promptly, and confidentially.

1. Purpose of the Grievance Process

The grievance process is designed to allow residents to express concerns about program policies, staff actions, or interactions with other residents. It aims to resolve issues amicably and maintain a positive living environment. This process is in line with the program's commitment to fair treatment and non-retaliation for residents who seek to raise concerns.

2. Eligibility to File a Grievance

All residents of ELRTHP have the right to file a grievance. This includes concerns about violations of the Code of Conduct, issues related to safety, discrimination, harassment, and any other factors that may affect their residency experience.

3. Steps to File a Grievance

Residents can follow these steps to file a grievance:

A. Informal Discussion

Residents are encouraged to first address their concerns directly with the involved party, whether it's a staff member or another resident. This informal discussion can often lead to a quick resolution.

B. Written Grievance Submission

If the issue is not resolved informally, residents should submit a written grievance. This document should include:

- The date and time of the incident

- A detailed description of the issue

- Any relevant evidence or witnesses

- The desired outcome or resolution

Written grievances can be submitted to a designated staff member or placed in a confidential grievance box located in a common area.

C. Acknowledgment of Grievance

Upon receiving the written grievance, staff will acknowledge receipt within three business days. This acknowledgment will include information about the next steps in the process.

4. Investigation of the Grievance**

Once a grievance is submitted, the program will initiate an investigation. This may involve:

- Interviewing the resident who filed the grievance

- Meeting with the staff or residents involved

- Gathering any relevant documentation or evidence

The investigation will be conducted promptly, aiming to reach a resolution within seven business days. Residents will be kept informed throughout the process.

5. Resolution of the Grievance

After the investigation is complete, the program will determine the appropriate action based on the findings. The resolution may include:

- No action if the grievance is not substantiated

- Implementation of corrective measures if the grievance is upheld

- Recommendations for mediation or conflict resolution between involved parties

Residents will receive written notice of the outcome of their grievance, including any actions taken, within ten business days of the resolution.

6. Right to Appeal

If a resident is not satisfied with the outcome of their grievance, they have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal must be submitted in writing within five business days of receiving the resolution notice. The appeal will be reviewed by a different staff member or a grievance committee, who will provide a final determination within ten business days.

7. Confidentiality and Non-Retaliation

All grievances will be handled with confidentiality to protect the privacy of the individuals involved. Residents can feel secure in knowing that they will not face retaliation for filing a grievance, as ELRTHP maintains a strict non-retaliation policy.

8. Continuous Improvement

The ELRTHP values feedback from residents and sees the grievance process as an opportunity for improvement. Regular reviews of grievance trends and outcomes will be conducted to enhance program practices and address any systemic issues.

The grievance process at the Emerging Light Reentry and Transitional Housing Program is designed to empower residents to voice their concerns and seek resolutions effectively. By providing a structured and supportive approach to grievances, ELRTHP reinforces its commitment to fostering a respectful and safe living environment for all individuals involved in the program.