What is Housing First?

This week we want to unpack the Housing First approach, one of several effective and proven methods to reduce homelessness. You may have heard the term in local election speeches or on social media, but it can often be drowned out by hot button issues and vitriol. So our team wants to take you to the heart of this paramount pipeline.

Housing First, simply put, means prioritizing permanent housing for those experiencing homelessness without any preconditions, expectations of sobriety, employment, or the need to “prove” that individuals are “ready” for housing. Without access to housing, people often lose necessary documentation, lack an address and a phone to coordinate medical appointments and job interviews, lack stability and sleep that can negatively impact one’s mental health which makes it almost impossible to secure stable employment, and navigate the processes and systems to receive other supportive services. 

Housing First does not mean “Housing Only.” It’s also true that some folks experiencing homelessness will need interventions prior to being offered their own apartments. And even for the majority of folks who could move right into permanent housing, there are important wraparound services that will need to be provided for those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, substance misuse disorders, etc... For many individuals and families alike, Housing First would strip away unnecessary barriers and reduce time in shelters. It gives people a fresh start from a firm foundation and a better chance at success. (Did we mention it's also more cost-effective for the government?!) It is a well-calculated and reasonable aim at reducing homelessness. Housing First means people can be stabilized to receive ongoing care.

So why hasn’t it happened? There are many factors to consider in any solution for homelessness. If you look closely, many lawmakers have included this approach in their proposals, and yet few communities have taken the necessary steps to bring it fully to fruition. So, we are encouraging all members of the City Relief community to learn more about Housing First and attend their local housing board meetings to learn about the housing solutions offered in your neighborhood. By generating community awareness and then using our voices we can ensure our communities are providing the best solutions for our vulnerable neighbors. 

Here are some resources, click through to learn:

Click HERE to learn more about Housing First and HERE to learn about other solutions to homelessness

Click HERE to find a board meeting near you.