A homelessness expert in the US has written about the successes and challenges of Housing First in Washington State – also providing an insight into how Housing First is viewed there.
Writing in The Seattle Times, Paul Carlson says: “The persistence of homelessness frustrates everyone, no matter your politics, beliefs or assumptions.
“However, the strategy of moving homeless people directly into housing that also provides social services is tried and true.”
Carlson goes on to spell out why the state must not give up on Housing First despite a media backlash, and offers practical solutions for making the system work more effectively for those who need support the most.