Phoenix may use homeless program
Model offers housing despite substance abuse
Casey Newton The Arizona Republic May. 28, 2008 12:00 AM
Phoenix could overhaul its approach to reducing homelessness this year using a method credited with dramatically improving conditions in Seattle. Phoenix is considering adopting a model of treating homelessness known as Housing First, in which homeless families are given housing even if one or more members of the household are abusing substances. Traditional homelessness programs require residents to be sober before they can move into housing. But social workers have found it difficult to get their clients off drugs or alcohol if the clients do not have safe, stable housing. Phoenix does not maintain beds for homeless services but it does fund organizations that do. The City Council's housing subcommittee recently discussed adopting Housing First as its official policy on funding homelessness programs. If approved by the full council, the policy would award more funds to organizations and programs that offer housing to the homeless regardless of sobriety. Councilman Tom Simplot, who chairs the subcommittee, became enthusiastic about Housing First this year after visiting a Seattle facility that uses the model. Adopting the model at the Seattle facility 1811 Eastlake reduced medical expenses to the county by 41 percent, jail bookings by 45 percent and shelter stays by 92 percent. "The numbers speak for themselves," Simplot said. "Lower crime, lower cost." A discussion of Housing First among the full council could come within the next month, officials said. Councilman Greg Stanton said he supports bringing the model to Phoenix. "Housing First works," he said.
