The Effra Trust hostel has housed about 150 men since it first opened its doors and aims to provide homes rather than housing for people who are difficult to accommodate. People with serious criminal and psychiatric histories have been accepted by Effra Trust and have been successfully housed and rehabilitated. Hostel employees have close working relationships with forensic and other psychiatric services. Hostel residents have different needs and abilities, and an effort is made to place them in accommodations that best suit their needs. Data on referrals to the Effra Trust hostel between 1990 and 1995 indicated the men ranged in age from 18 to 74 years, had a criminal history, and were suffering from a wide variety of mental disorders. A comparison of resident and referral populations showed residents were less likely to be using illegal drugs and were more likely to be sex offenders. Residents identified problems at the hostel related to lack of money, difficulties with other residents, and lack of freedom. 1 reference and 2 tables