Housing First
An evidence-based approach to addressing homelessness that prioritizes providing permanent housing without preconditions for sobriety or treatment engagement.
Full Definition
Housing First is a homeless assistance model that provides permanent housing to people experiencing homelessness without requiring sobriety, treatment compliance, or service participation as preconditions. In community psychiatry, this approach recognizes that housing stability is a prerequisite for addressing mental health and substance use issues effectively. Unlike traditional 'treatment first' models that require clients to demonstrate readiness through program compliance, Housing First programs offer immediate access to scattered-site apartments with flexible, voluntary supportive services. Research demonstrates that Housing First achieves higher housing retention rates and improved mental health outcomes compared to traditional transitional housing models.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize 'Housing First' as it refers to a specific evidence-based model.
In Context
- "The Housing First program achieved an 85% housing retention rate among participants with serious mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders." — Program evaluation report
- "Federal funding priorities increasingly emphasize Housing First principles in permanent supportive housing initiatives." — Grant application guidance