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Housing First Success
Housing First has gained recognition over the past five years as studies have found it exceptionally successful in ending homelessness for chronically homeless individuals, particularly for those with psychiatric disabilities and co-occurring substance use disorders. Housing First has been endorsed by the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, the U.S. Conference of Mayors, and the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
The Coalition established the Denver Housing First Collaborative in October 2003 to provide supportive housing for 100 chronically homeless individuals in Denver. CCH expanded the program to serve an additional 100 individuals in 2005. Through the 16th Street Housing First Project, intensive case management and support services are provided, in addition to housing. These services are designed to help each individual maintain their housing, to improve their health and mental health status, and to reduce substance use.
A December 2006 analysis revealed that utilization of emergency room care, inpatient medical and psychiatric care, detox services, incarceration, and emergency shelter were significantly reduced. Overall, a 72.95 percent reduction was reported in emergency service costs for chronically homeless individuals with disabilities, for a 24 month period, as compared to the 24 months prior to entry. The total emergency cost savings averaged $31,545 per participant.