Describe the experience of any organization in assessing supportive housing needs of homeless?

Answer 1

I have not worked in housing, but I can answer your question based on general knowledge.

First, assessment of housing must start with knowing the available community resources. For example, some areas do not have much "low income" housing. Or, some areas have closed Section 8 programs and applications are only taken every 2 years. Or, in some cities, the local mental health board has short-term programs offering temporary housing assistance.

Second, assessment must be done of the person. Is he mentally able to search for housing? Can she budget money and handle finances? Is housing needed for 1 person, or for a family? What skills does the head of household need in order to successfully live in the community? Does the head of household have a felony conviction or drug conviction? Convictions often mean the person cannot qualify for public housing. Does drugs or alcohol abuse interfere with the person's ability to live on their own?

Based on the assessment listed above, what community resources exist to help the person? Who or what agencies can give supportive help? Does the person need a case manager or guardian services?

Many people think it is easy to find housing and that the homeless should "just get busy and get a home". But, often many factors contributed to homelessness; all those factors need addressed first. Even if communities had thousands of empty apartments, it won't work to just put people into them if they also need supportive services.