https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/08/opinions/homelessness-solutions-houston-model-eichenbaum-nichols/index.html
Then we made three crucial decisions. First, we decided to work
together as a collaborative system, aligned around a standardized set of
goals, processes and strategies, rather than as individual
organizations and government entities each trying to chip away at the
problem. Today, more than 100 entities in the Houston area are working
together and combining their efforts and resources to move the needle on
reducing homelessness. Our collaboration includes using a centralized
database to capture information and track the service needs of people
experiencing homelessness and using a standardized assessment to
determine which housing and/or service interventions best suit each
household.
Second, we embraced the data-proven best practices of Housing First,
a strategy focused on getting individuals and families out of
homelessness and into permanent housing before helping them address any
other problems. We do this via voluntary wraparound support services,
e.g., mental health or substance abuse counseling, health care, job
training and so on. The services help keep the person housed, and the
housing is what makes the services effective.
Third, we housed the most vulnerable people first. When the
average person sees someone experiencing homelessness and struggling
with mental illness, they assume that individual is dangerous or needs
hospitalization. Our experience is that most of these folks stabilize in housing with the appropriate level of services.
* * * * *
Treating people with dignity and respect, just that goes a long way. Houston is looking like a good test case for holistic solutions.