Occupational therapists bringing health care to homeless

USC Chan occupational therapists are also helping through the Skid Row Housing Trust (SRHT) project. Pitts recalls getting an email from the organization about bringing in an occupational therapist to join their permanent team.

I responded immediately,” she said. “Anyone who wanted to talk to us about what we can do, I was interested.

Phil Lee, MA, is an occupational therapy doctorate student currently doing his yearlong practice residency training at Skid Row Housing Trust. There, spread across 26 buildings, 2,000 tenants are working to rebuild safe, stable and fulfilling lives. Lee knows occupational therapy can contribute toward that vision. Working alongside SRHT residents, he offers strategies, techniques and resources that empower residents to perform meaningful daily activities and build towards their long-term life goals.