When I first came to Ascencia I was immediately impressed by the setup of the shelter. It was very organized and yet felt homely which allows for the individual to interact with fellow human beings. I noticed when one becomes homeless there is isolation as some people would try to avoid them in the streets. The homely environment allows them to get that feel again of getting back into society. The clients are treated with respect and and compassion and yet given responsibilities. Each one is assigned a task to help clean and maintain orderliness in the facility (example: cleaning of the kitchen after meals, cleaning of the bathrooms and the general area). The staff are very professional and friendly. I believe Ascencia is a model shelter. They have in place a program that not only provides the daily needs of the individual: food, shelter, medical attention but also helps them obtain the government assistance they are entitled to, and eventually help find low cost housing. It also looks forward to get them settled back and be able to sustain themselves on a long term basis. At the same time, the clients are checked on regularly to ensure their well-being. Ascencia helps give back the dignity that one may have lost during one’s ordeal into homelessness. As one of the guest chefs, I feel honored to be part of such a great team and hope to be able to assist in the many more months, years ahead.