Second Wind Claimed

The mission of Second Wind is to provide housing and support for individuals on a journey towards restored lives. As a not-for-profit organization, we aim to address the serious and complex issue of homelessness in the United States through a community-first approach.

Our work begins by building relationships with those who are often overlooked and considered “invisible” by society. Through our Homeless Crisis Alleviation efforts and supportive housing cottage site, we strive to connect with individuals who are in desperate need of friendship and support. We understand that poverty is not only a lack of resources, but also a lack of meaningful relationships. Therefore, we focus on fostering trust and building relationships over time, so that we can assist those who desire a positive change in their lives.

Second Wind is funded through various sources, including private individuals, grants, businesses, other organizations, and fundraising events. We are grateful for the support of local businesses and professionals who have donated products and services or offered discounts. Additionally, residents contribute to the program through a fee based on their ability to pay, which may come from a housing subsidy or their own income source.

Our current site allows for the construction of 18 cottages, as per local and state site-planning regulations. In November 2018, we moved residents into the final three cottages. In a future phase of the project, we plan to replace the existing trailer, which serves as our common building, with a permanent structure for office, meeting, and program space.

All cottage furnishings are donated, and we welcome donations of furniture and household items for the men in our program. If you are interested in donating, you may contact Amy Bach at amy@bg.org.

While our current site at 1435 Elmira Rd is for men, we have a new location in Dryden, NY that will be designated for women and their children.

Residents at Second Wind are encouraged to pay a program fee based on their ability to contribute, but not being able to pay does not exclude anyone from being considered for residency. We believe that everyone deserves an opportunity for restored lives, regardless of their financial situation.

To ensure a safe and supportive community, Second Wind requires residents to agree to and sign a code of conduct, also known as a good neighbor policy, before moving into a cottage. This includes restrictions on guests and maintaining a clean and sober environment.

We offer a range of resources and services to support the restoration process for our residents. This includes regular meetings with staff to assess areas for growth and support, Christian fellowship and support (although participation is voluntary), life skills training, meals and social events, access to laundry facilities and exercise equipment, and a food pantry. We also partner with private and government agencies to provide additional support to our residents.

Transportation services are available through the public bus route that serves downtown Ithaca and Tompkins County, as well as through connections with individuals who can provide rides to special appointments as needed. Medicaid cab is also available for residents with Medicaid who require transportation to medical appointments.

Second Wind’s housing model differs from St. John’s Community Services (formerly the Rescue Mission) in Ithaca, which offers dormitory-style living arrangements and short-term housing as an emergency shelter. In contrast, Second Wind provides individual cottages designed for long-term residency, where residents can learn to live independently and stably while maintaining their sobriety and dignity. The cottages are energy-efficient dwellings clustered around a community building that serves as a hub for meals, training, meetings, office space, laundry, and community engagement.

Our hope for each resident at Second Wind is that they will be able to transition to a less supported environment within 5 years, and that the relationships formed during their stay with us will endure.

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