States Can Reject Housing First
During the past decade, federal homelessness policies have failed to stem the growing desperation among America’s homeless, and by most metrics, it appears to have only added to their suffering.
This is largely because federal policies are focused on the Housing First strategy. Housing First policies give individuals taxpayer-funded housing benefits without any requirements for participation in mental health, substance abuse, and other stability programs.
THE SOLUTION
States should create pressure in key areas and leverage funding to de-emphasize Housing First programs and instead foster innovative state-level approaches to homelessness alleviation.
Specific solutions include:
States should also:
- Expand and improve short-term housing
- Create accountability for long-term housing
- Respond to crime
- Improve data and performance measures
WHY IT MATTERS
Two decades of failed Housing First models have plunged our communities and homeless residents deeper into despair.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
States must reassert their autonomy over homelessness policies and incentivize communities to reject Housing First in favor of programs that have long-term benefits that help individuals rebuild their lives.
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