New research out of Hamilton finds that not only is it more effective to provide housing first, it’s cheaper.
The study provided stable housing for participants and supports as needed to help prevent slip-ups.
“A study lauding the effectiveness of the “housing first” model for addressing homelessness couldn’t have come at a better time.
Research out of McMaster University shows that by putting the importance of a bed ahead of treatment for addictions or mental health issues, it is not only more effective, but cheaper, too.
This month, federal dollars assigned to curb homelessness in Hamilton switched over to a model that allocates 65 cents of every dollar to the housing first model, which focuses on finding permanent housing rather than shelter maintenance for the street populations.
One housing first Hamilton program being used right now goes even further, and may be the next step in evolving strategies against homelessness…”
Full article here.
Photo by Canadian Press/Kevin Frayer
