7.2 Addressing homelessness: Prevention and intervention strategies
4 min read•july 31, 2024
Homelessness is a complex issue with various forms, from chronic to hidden. Economic factors like and lack of affordable housing, along with social and health issues, contribute to this problem. Understanding these causes is crucial for developing effective solutions.
Prevention and intervention strategies are key to addressing homelessness. These include eviction prevention, , and . like and are also vital for helping individuals achieve stability and independence.
Homelessness: Definition and Forms
Types of Homelessness
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Lack of fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence encompasses individuals and families who have lost housing and live in temporary shelters, streets, or unstable situations
involves experiencing homelessness for at least a year or repeatedly while struggling with disabling conditions (serious mental illness, substance use disorder, physical disability)
entails multiple episodes over time, cycling between housing instability and homelessness due to factors (job loss, health issues, domestic violence)
, also called provisional accommodation, includes temporary living with others without guaranteed continued residency or immediate prospects for permanent housing
pertains to unaccompanied minors and young adults aged 18-24 lacking stable housing, often due to family conflict, abuse, or aging out of foster care
presents unique challenges with less visibility, involving substandard or overcrowded housing, vehicles, or private land without basic amenities
Characteristics of Homelessness
Varies in duration from short-term to long-term periods
Affects diverse populations including individuals, families, youth, and elderly
Manifests differently in urban and rural settings
Often involves lack of access to basic necessities (food, healthcare, education)
Frequently associated with and
Can lead to increased vulnerability to violence, exploitation, and health issues
May result in cyclical patterns of housing instability and homelessness
Causes and Risk Factors of Homelessness
Economic Factors
Poverty and as primary structural contributors to homelessness
Limited financial resources lead to struggles affording housing and meeting basic needs
Lack of affordable housing pushes low-income individuals out of communities
Gentrification in urban areas exacerbates housing insecurity
Unemployment and underemployment increase likelihood of homelessness
Particularly impacts those with limited education or job skills
Income volatility and unexpected financial shocks (medical bills, car repairs) can trigger homelessness
Rising housing costs outpacing wage growth in many areas
Social and Health Factors
Mental illness and substance use disorders create complex cycles difficult to break without support
Can be both risk factors for and consequences of homelessness
Domestic violence and family conflict force individuals to choose between unsafe living conditions and homelessness
Leading causes among women and youth
Systemic racism and discrimination in housing, employment, and social services
Contributes to disproportionate rates of homelessness among racial and ethnic minorities
Incarceration and involvement with criminal justice system create barriers to housing and employment
Increases risk of homelessness upon release
Chronic health conditions and disabilities can lead to job loss and financial strain
Lack of social support networks to provide temporary housing or financial assistance
Preventing and Intervening in Homelessness
Prevention Strategies
reduce individuals entering homelessness due to housing instability
Include legal aid and emergency rental assistance
and for individuals leaving institutions
Targets vulnerable populations from hospitals, prisons, or foster care
for at-risk youth and families
Address family conflict, abuse, and other factors leading to youth homelessness
and counseling to improve budgeting and financial management skills
and
Increase availability of low-cost housing options
Intervention Approaches
Rapid re-housing programs quickly move individuals and families out of homelessness into stable housing
Provide short-term rental assistance and support services
Housing First approaches prioritize providing permanent housing without preconditions
Demonstrated success in addressing chronic homelessness and improving overall stability
(ACT) teams offer intensive, community-based support
Target individuals with severe mental illness to reduce homelessness and improve mental health outcomes
and job training initiatives tailored to homeless individuals' needs
Increase income and housing stability
streamline access to housing and support services across multiple agencies
Improve efficiency and effectiveness in addressing homelessness at community level
Supportive Housing and Wraparound Services for Chronic Homelessness
Supportive Housing Models
Combines affordable housing with intensive case management and support services
Addresses complex needs of chronically homeless individuals with disabilities or mental health issues
programs demonstrate high rates of housing retention
Improve quality of life for chronically homeless individuals
Reduce use of emergency services and hospitalizations
Housing First model, when combined with supportive housing, shows effectiveness in engaging resistant individuals
Particularly successful with those who may have been resistant to traditional shelter-based interventions
Cost-benefit analyses demonstrate supportive housing as more cost-effective than persistent chronic homelessness
Considers reduced use of emergency services, hospitalizations, and criminal justice system interactions
Wraparound Services
Mental health treatment addresses underlying psychological issues
supports recovery and relapse prevention
improves independent living capabilities
Includes budgeting, cooking, and personal hygiene
Employment support facilitates job search, resume writing, and interview skills
ensures access to medical and dental services
Educational programs provide opportunities for GED completion or vocational training
allow access to housing and services without requiring abstinence
Increases engagement and retention in supportive housing programs