Direct Placement Versus Multistage Models of Supported Housing in a Population of Veterans Who Are Homeless
Description:
This study presents information about two models of supported housing when combined with ready access to rent subsidies: a direct placement approach (where individuals are placed directly into independent housing from homelessness), and a multistage continuum approach (where individuals are placed first into a residential setting prior to independent housing). Using observational data from the national Housing and Urban Development–Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) program, which provided case management and housing subsidies to homeless veterans with psychiatric or substance abuse disorders, participants were categorized as receiving direct placement housing or multistage housing based on where they spent the majority of days prior to entry into HUD-VASH. Results indicate that multistage housing participants had significantly worse scores on baseline measures of alcohol and drug use, quality of life, and social support, and subsequently experienced significantly greater improvements over time so that, with the exception of employment outcomes, between-groups differences were not significant at later time periods. Multistage participants had health care costs that averaged more than three times those of direct placement participants during the initial period of residential care.
Type of Resource:
Journal
Publication Date:
2009
Volume:
6
Issue:
3
Pages:
190-201
Location:
Connecticut; United States