Phoenix Rescue Mission

I spoke to Jennifer today for an intake after an unpleasant experience at CASS. I have an appointment at 4:30 pm today. Let's see what happens. Date Submitted: November 21, 2025 Dates of Stay: November 17, 2025 – November 19, 2025 (am) Subject: Formal Complaint Regarding Unprofessional Conduct, Policy Violations, and Improper Dismissal during my Stay at Phoenix Rescue Mission This formal complaint details my experience, which concluded with an improper and retaliatory dismissal following my attempts to provide constructive feedback and advocate for resident rights. Proverbs 10:9: “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely…” I. Overview and Programmatic Concerns The program’s framework includes critical dimensions of wellness. However, a systemic issue exists where I witnessed women being reportedly encouraged to “pretend to be happy” to “fit in,” which discourages genuine emotional processing. This contradicts the Mission’s stated purpose of providing solutions to people facing trauma, as experiencing trauma is inherently not a “happy” experience. The dismissal based on my lack of “happiness” directly contradicts the Mission’s mandate to address emotional and mental wellness. II. Specific Legal and Policy Violations A. Violation of Religious Freedom (Establishment Clause) * Incident: A young resident informed me she was being told she would be barred from attending her chosen place of worship and instead be provided a list of “approved” churches. * Legal Concern: I informed the resident that influencing a person’s choice of worship is a violation of federal law. This could be seen as the state coercing religious exercise, violating the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. * Outcome: The resident was later told in a group meeting the restriction should not have been imposed, but her choice of worship would still be delayed for six months. B. Discrimination Concerns (CROWN Act & Professional Retaliation) * Incident: When Supervisor Meka solicited feedback, I addressed the lack of appropriate hair care products for my hair texture. B. Unauthorized Disposal of Personal Items (11.17.25, 4:45 PM) * Vulnerability and Context: Upon entry, staff member Charmaine asked if she could throw away my property. Due to my highly vulnerable state— experiencing homelessness and an acute personal hygiene crisis (starting my period, having run out of supplies)—I was unable to give clear, voluntary consent for the disposal. * Trashed Items: A significant amount of property was improperly disposed of, including essential items (Deodorant, Castille soap, Shea Moisture conditioner, chapstick, sealed lipstick, Peanut Butter, Bread, Hot Coco Packs) and work-related items (pens, markers, highlighters, 57th legislative book). * Discrepancy: The disposal of my items while similar items belonging to my two roommates and other residents were not suggests an unfair and selective application of policy. C. Failure to Follow Up and Professional Shut-Down * Misconduct: Meka failed to return as promised after stepping out to address my property complaint. Later, when I attempted to provide feedback, I was accused of trying to be “above the program,” and staff reported my statement regarding religious choice. * Shut-Down: When I attempted to continue the discussion, Meka abruptly shut down the conversation, repeatedly saying, “Have a blessed day…” I responded directly by stating, “You’re acting unprofessionally. You’re supposed to be a professional.” Please be advised, if proper channels are not informed and addressed properly, I will make sure all of positions are replaced by professionals who value their positions and have respect for individuals/people as well. ...More details to follow

I came here in September really looking forward to starting my journey, but my experience was disappointing. Because of some health issues — I use a CPAP and get dizzy sometimes — I needed a bottom bunk. Even though I had medical clearance, they still wouldn’t take me. It felt like unless you’re 100% healthy and don’t need any accommodations, you’re not respected here. There are definitely issues that need to be fixed. Some staff can be rude or push people away instead of helping. The only person who was kind and helpful was Brittany, the case manager — she truly cared. I also noticed people sharing phones in hidden areas, smelled weed one time, and some even go to the ER just to make phone calls to family. It’s sad and disappointing because this place could really help people if they addressed these problems and treated everyone with more compassion. Also pretty funny they had us all hide in rooms and not allowed to walk around when “news crews “ were there filming

The fact that they don't take SMI ppl is wrong, everyone deserves a right to any shelter