TO PREPARE: Review resources related to health policy. Consider the health policy that might align with your advocacy priorities. BY DAY 3 OF WEEK 5 Post a response detailing the following: Identify a proposed state and federal policy that aligns with your advocacy priorities for your vulnerable population. Clearly describe and provide evidence to support this policy. If the policy needs to change, describe and provide evidence to support the proposed change.

Reply from Stella Paul

Main Discussion

One proposed policy that aligns with advocacy priorities for vulnerable homeless populations is the Housing First approach, which has been supported at both the state and federal levels. Housing First emphasizes the immediate provision of permanent housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, without preconditions like sobriety or employment. It recognizes that stable housing is a prerequisite for addressing other issues such as mental health, substance abuse, and employment.

Federal Policy: The American Rescue Plan Act (2021)

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) includes provisions to combat homelessness, particularly through funding for emergency rental assistance and homelessness assistance programs. One of its key provisions is the allocation of $5 billion for the Emergency Housing Voucher program, which provides long-term housing assistance to vulnerable populations, including those at risk of homelessness or currently homeless (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development [HUD], 2021). This aligns with the Housing First model by prioritizing housing stability before addressing other challenges.

Evidence: Research has demonstrated that the Housing First model significantly reduces homelessness and improves well-being among homeless individuals (Tsemberis, 2021). Studies also show that individuals who receive housing support through Housing First are less likely to return to homelessness and experience improved health outcomes (Fischer & Breakey, 2022).

State Policy: California’s Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention Program (HHAPP)

In California, the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) program is designed to provide direct financial support to local governments for emergency shelters, housing solutions, and outreach services. The program prioritizes vulnerable populations, including individuals with chronic mental health conditions or substance abuse issues, aligning with Housing First principles. California has been a leader in implementing Housing First policies, and its HHAP program was expanded as part of the state’s efforts to combat homelessness (California Department of Housing and Community Development [HCD], 2023).

Evidence: A report from the California Housing Partnership (2022) found that communities implementing Housing First models in California have seen significant reductions in chronic homelessness and improvements in housing stability. Furthermore, studies indicate that targeted funding for homelessness prevention can reduce the overall costs of homelessness, as providing housing is less expensive than providing emergency services or long-term care for homeless individuals (California Housing Partnership, 2022).

Proposed Change: Increase Funding for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

While the Housing First model is a significant step forward, there is a gap in the integration of mental health and substance abuse services. Research suggests that many individuals experiencing homelessness face co-occurring mental health disorders and substance abuse problems, which can hinder their ability to maintain stable housing (Sullivan et al., 2023). Currently, policies like ARPA and HHAP focus on providing housing assistance, but they do not always adequately address the integrated support services needed to help individuals thrive long-term in housing.

Proposed Change: Increasing funding for mental health and substance abuse treatment services should be integrated into existing housing-first programs. Evidence suggests that combining permanent housing with comprehensive mental health and addiction support can further reduce homelessness and improve individuals' outcomes (Nelson et al., 2022). A comprehensive, wraparound approach that includes both housing and behavioral health services is essential for ensuring that individuals not only have a place to live but also the resources to succeed in the long term.

Evidence: Research by Nelson et al. (2022) highlights that individuals who received both stable housing and mental health services showed improved long-term outcomes compared to those who received only housing assistance. Similarly, studies by Sullivan et al. (2023) indicate that providing access to both housing and substance use treatment results in a higher likelihood of housing retention and better overall well-being for previously homeless individuals.

Conclusion:

The Housing First model, supported by both federal and state policies like ARPA and HHAP, is a promising strategy for addressing homelessness. However, integrating increased mental health and subst