WHAT IS HOUSING FIRST?
A homelessness solution that quickly connects people to permanent housing.
1
Immediate access to permanent housing without precondition
2
Consumer choice and self-determination
3
Individualized, client-driven supports and recovery orientation
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Two primary models of Housing First
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Tenant pays 30% of income in perpetuity; intensive case management and supports. Larger investment, targeting most vulnerable populations.
Permanent
supportive
housing
Rent is partially subsidized for 6-24 months; time-limited case management. Smaller investment for those who can attain self-sufficiency.
Rapid
rehousing
Agencies are implementing
Housing First across the country
Source data: 2018 Housing Inventory Count, HUD Exchange
Denver, CO
Share of total homeless beds available that are "Housing First"
(PSH, RRH, or Other Permanent Housing)
Housing First is the most effective method for resolving homelessness
"People experiencing homelessness - like all people - need the safety and stability of a home to best address challenges and pursue opportunities."
$25k+
per person savings from Housing First
vs. usual care
Diverted resources
Emergency medical services
Criminal justice
Shelter
Improved outcomes
Mental and physical health
Youth education
Employment
Agencies need support to expand Housing First
Lack of resources
AT 30% AREA
MEDIAN INCOME...
100
families
There are an available
35
units
For every
ONLY...
of philanthropic donations go to homelessness
1%
Organizational effectiveness
10%
Average grant allowance for indirect costs (vs. 35% standard for businesses)
of funds are wasted due to inefficient process"
-Denver housing provider
30%
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Agencies need support to expand Housing First
Organizational effectiveness
10%
Average grant allowance for indirect costs (vs. 35% standard for businesses)
of funds are wasted due to inefficient processes."
"30%
HousingFirst Lab solves these challenges by uniting resources, talent, and knowledge across sectors to end homelessness.
Sources & additional reading
Additional reading
-
Point-in-Time and Housing Inventory Count data - HUD Exchange
-
The Gap: A Shortage of Affordable Rental Homes - National Low Income Housing Coalition
Selection of Housing First studies
-
“Housing First as an effective model…” (Brown et al, 2016) [shown above]
-
“A systematic review of outcomes…” (Woodhall-Melnik & Dunn, 2016)
-
“Evaluation of the 100,000 Homes Campaign” (Leopold & Ho, 2015)
-
“Housing First for People with Severe Mental Illness…” (Aubry, Nelson & Tsemberis, 2015)
-
“A Randomized Trial Examining Housing First…” (Somers et al, 2017)
Other sources
-
Stanford Social Innovation Review
-
Neighborhood Funders Group