ABI is run by SELF Inc., one of the largest nonprofits helping homeless people in Philadelphia, and serves 100 families in South Philadelphia. SELF's Peer Outreach Team and the Office of Supportive Housing make referrals.

ABI houses single and two-parent households and provide helpful services. SELF seeks to create a nurturing, caring and non-threatening atmosphere at the shelter through the creation of a “peer culture.” Peer counselors are elected by residents to represent them, help new residents, and provide a good example. At weekly community meetings residents can share their complaints or ideas about life at ABI. In addition, many members of the staff are former SELF’s shelter residents so they understand the obstacles facing client families.

Group counseling, life skills classes, and parent help are all available on-site through SELF’s programs. Help for drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, and any mental health problem is available on and off-site through SELF and partnering outside organizations. Case managers and peer counselors work with families to help them move through the shelter’s four level system. As residents progress to more stability and responsibility they move up through the levels until they are prepared to leave the shelter.

Childcare services are available on-site and the staff monitors the educational progress of children attending school. Children can also sign up for summer camps through the City of Philadelphia. A computer laboratory is also available to adult and child residents off-site at SELF’s Outley House in Southwest Philadelphia.

One Neighborhood developed this summary. If you are an employee of SELF Inc., contact hello@oneneighborhood.org to update this page.