2. Overview and Disclaimer Two topics: 1) sample calculation for recommending capacity by type, and 2) important key system components to decrease homelessness by retooling Many approaches to calculating need Significant local differences in capacity and conditions Type doesn’t necessarily = usage/program delivery Best fit interventions include significant assumptions Targets may change over time
3. Essential Elements Four elements in the continuum: intake/assessment crisis housing/shelter transitional housing permanent supportive housing Step one: Map the resources in your continuum; what capacity do you have in each of the four elements?
5. Step Two: Design Strategies - Calculations How does your current capacity impact behavior? Can/should you use national benchmark data vs. local data about length of stay and matched interventions? The least expensive intervention should be used with the largest number of people, as long as it is effective and appropriate. The most expensive intervention should be used with the smallest number of people, as long as it is effective and appropriate.
6. Step Three: Projecting what the map SHOULD look like Using Culhane typology and assumptions about best fit interventions Chronically homeless individuals are best served in permanent supportive housing Transitional Housing units should not be entirely eliminated but should be deemphasized and better matched to higher need individuals/families Prevention and Rapid Rehousing are available and effective alternatives to transitional housing for families Emergency shelter is an effective first response and gatekeeper to other/more expensive interventions
8. One Year Capacity Calculation Assumes 28/45 ES stay and 9 month TH stay
9. Understanding the Dynamics Between Programs Turnover in PSH Length of stay that you have now vs. what should be How do you factor your unsheltered population – one day versus over the year?
11. Essential Elements for the System Central Intake for families, questionable about singles Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Variety of settings should be available; abstinence vs. harm reduction, site-based vs. scattered site, etc. Evidence-based practices are important and outcome based practices are required