Allison Chappell, a member of the Housing First team, was recognized for her work with helping homeless individuals in the City of Tucson.

The Arizona Housing Coalition named her the recipient of the Kevin Collins Award for Excellence in Direct Service. The award is given to direct service employees "who go above and beyond to get clients housed."

Allison manages the Wildcat Inn and No-Tel Motel, both on North Oracle Road, two of four City-operated shelters for individuals and families in need of long-term shelter. In her capacity, she attends to the immediate needs of people who come off the street and move into the no-barrier shelters.

"Allison has been a leader in the implementation of the first-ever City operated shelters and the outreach to unsheltered individuals and families needing shelter," said Brandi Champion, director of Tucson's Housing First.

At the onset of the pandemic, Allison was instrumental in the operation of a 200-bed covid isolation shelter funded by the City of Tucson for persons with co-morbidities that would be at risk for serious health problems should they contract covid. 

Under the Housing First approach, individuals can obtain immediate access to housing with no preconditions. Those who choose to live in a City shelter can elect where to live, what services to use and to pursue employment and personal goals. Wrap-around services are provided, such as counseling and trauma recovery. The Housing First model focuses on individuals and encourages them to connect to positive social and community participation.

Allison was hired in early 2022, after working for Old Pueblo Community Services, a local non-profit, for 2 years.

At the City shelters, Old Pueblo Community Service employees work with the residents helping them find jobs through the Homeless Work Program. Health workers, including nurses and behavioral health specialists from El Rio Community Health, provide weekly on-site services.

"She is a true champion of housing first and assisting our unsheltered neighbors regain purpose and dignity," said Champion. 

Allison will receive her award in person at the Arizona Housing Coalition’s annual conference, Wednesday, March 1, at the Mesa Convention Center in in Mesa.