Single Location

A housing strategy that allows for the gradual expansion or improvement of housing units as residents" financial situations improve, offering a flexible and affordable path to homeownership or stable housing.

Special court sessions held in accessible locations, such as shelters or community centers, to resolve outstanding misdemeanor offenses, fines, and warrants for homeless individuals, facilitating their path to stability and housing.

A systematic process to identify the needs of a population, such as individuals experiencing homelessness, and determine the services and resources required to address those needs effectively.

Housing where the rent is based on the tenant"s income, ensuring affordability by limiting housing costs to a fixed percentage of the household"s income.

Legislation adopted by some jurisdictions to protect the rights and dignity of homeless people, including the right to move freely in public spaces, sleep outdoors, and receive equal treatment by city agencies. Such laws aim to prevent discrimination and criminalization of homelessness.

A type of service for homeless individuals that combines low-barrier shelter access with on-site case management and support services, aimed at rapidly connecting people to permanent housing solutions.

A significant factor contributing to homelessness, this term refers to the uneven distribution of income within a population, leading to a gap between the wealthy and the poor. High levels of income inequality can exacerbate the lack of affordable housing and increase the risk of homelessness.

Refers to individuals who do not have stable housing but are not counted in official homelessness statistics because they are temporarily staying with others, in motels, or in other situations where their homelessness is not visible to the public or policymakers.

A counseling approach used in homelessness services to enhance individuals" motivation to change their circumstances, focusing on empathetic communication and respect for the person"s autonomy.

Zoning regulations that require a portion of new housing developments to be allocated for affordable housing, aimed at creating mixed-income communities and increasing the supply of affordable units.

A strategy applied within homeless services that focuses on reducing the negative consequences associated with risky behaviors (like drug use or sex work) without necessarily requiring abstinence or cessation of these behaviors. This approach emphasizes safety and health, aiming to meet individuals "where they are" in their lives.

Health care services delivered directly to individuals experiencing homelessness where they are, such as in shelters, on the streets, or in encampments, ensuring access to essential medical care.

Federal criteria that establish the minimum standards for health and safety in housing units that are occupied by families receiving housing assistance. Ensuring that housing meets these standards is critical for the well-being of individuals moving out of homelessness.

Developments that include housing units at various income levels, from market rate to deeply subsidized, aiming to promote diversity and inclusivity while addressing the need for affordable housing.

A broad term describing a range of difficulties that individuals or families may face in securing stable, safe, and affordable housing. This can encompass frequent moves due to economic pressures, living in inadequate or unsafe housing conditions, and the threat of eviction.

Small, affordable housing units designed to provide cost-effective living spaces, often used as a strategy to increase housing stock and address homelessness by offering more accessible options than traditional apartments or homes.

A condition where individuals or families face uncertain housing situations, such as difficulty paying rent, overcrowding, frequent moves, or staying in temporary accommodations. This term reflects the precarity and instability of one"s living situation short of homelessness.

The minimum income necessary for a worker to meet their basic needs, including housing, food, healthcare, and other essentials. The concept of a living wage is crucial in discussions about homelessness, as inadequate income is a primary barrier to securing stable housing.

An evidence-based approach that prioritizes providing permanent housing to people experiencing homelessness, without preconditions such as sobriety or employment, based on the belief that housing is a basic human right.

An annual count of sheltered and unsheltered homeless persons on a single night in January. This data collection effort is required by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for communities receiving federal homeless assistance funds, providing a snapshot of homelessness in the United States.

A tool used by service providers to understand an individual"s or family"s current and past housing situations, helping to tailor interventions and support to their specific needs and experiences.

An approach to homelessness intervention that prioritizes providing permanent housing to those without homes as the first step, without preconditions like employment, sobriety, or psychiatric treatment. This philosophy is based on the concept that stable housing is a foundation upon which individuals can build toward self-sufficiency and improved well-being.

Housing combined with wraparound services designed for people with disabilities or chronic issues, including substance use disorders or mental illness, who require ongoing support to maintain housing stability.

A conflict resolution process that brings together landlords and tenants with the aim of resolving disputes, such as those over rent arrears or evictions, without resorting to legal action, thereby potentially preventing homelessness.

The unequal distribution of housing resources and opportunities, often based on socioeconomic status, race, or geography. This term highlights systemic issues in housing markets and policies that contribute to homelessness.