First developed in the US, the initiative known as Housing First, is being adopted increasingly in Europe. Unlike traditional approaches, it doesn’t require individuals to meet certain criteria before receiving housing assistance. The idea is that homeless individuals have a higher chance of creating a brighter future for themselves if they first have a roof over their heads.
Carlos Martínez Carrasco lived rough for several years before a Housing First initiative provided him with a flat on the outskirts of Madrid.
He told Real Economy that the flat has changed his life in every way: “I no longer lack the things that you do when you’re on the street and I can cook. I don’t have to find a way to wash clothes… I can go out with the peace of mind that I have a place to come back to. I am very happy today.”
I’ve often thought of this too. I think I read that most homeless have underlying issues that aren’t financial (although with rent hikes…).
My initial thought would be dorm style apartments with varying levels of support at the building depending on the severity of issues.
That’s what’s rough about working with homeless populations. You want to save everyone, but sometimes trying to help one individual who doesn’t want help subtracts from helping the four that do.
I’m getting downvoted by people who haven’t had to work in and around shelters before I’m assuming, because it’s a very real issue and is the cause of a lot of the negative perception of homelessness.