Properties with Purpose

Happy August ! We are acknowledging and celebrating National Senior Citizens Day, which is 21st August 2024, a special occasion dedicated to honoring the contributions and achievements of our elderly population. Established by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, this day serves as a reminder of the invaluable wisdom, experience, and resilience that seniors bring to our communities.

The issue of homelessness among senior citizens in the United States has become increasingly alarming in recent years. On a single night in 2023, 138,098 adults over the age of 55 were experiencing homelessness. This demographic now comprises nearly half of the homeless population, a stark increase from just 11% in the early 1990s. The situation is expected to worsen, with projections indicating that homelessness among older adults could nearly triple by 2030. Factors contributing to this crisis include rising housing costs, fixed incomes, and age-related health issues. Shockingly, over 40% of homeless individuals aged 50 and older reported never having been homeless before reaching that age. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that people experiencing homelessness tend to have health profiles similar to those 20 years older in the general population, making the needs of this group particularly complex and urgent.
Take a moment to connect with senior loved ones—listen to their stories, share a meal, or volunteer at a local senior center. Let’s show our appreciation for their lifelong dedication and ensure they feel valued and respected within our society.

Housing First: A Compassionate Approach to Ending Homelessness
What is Housing First?
Housing First is a policy that offers unconditional, permanent housing as quickly as possible to individuals experiencing homelessness, followed by supportive services . This approach is based on the belief that housing is a basic human right and should not be denied to anyone, regardless of their circumstances .
Key Principles of Housing First
Rapid Housing Placement: The primary goal is to move homeless individuals into stable housing directly from the streets or shelters
No Preconditions: Housing is provided without requiring sobriety, treatment compliance, or other prerequisites .
Supportive Services: While not mandatory, robust support services are offered to help individuals maintain their housing and address other needs .
Harm Reduction: The approach embraces a harm-reduction philosophy towards addictions rather than mandating abstinence .
Client Choice: Housing First emphasizes the importance of client choice in housing selection and service participation.
Evidence of Effectiveness
Research has consistently shown that Housing First is an effective solution to homelessness:
Tenants in Housing First programs move into housing faster and stay housed longer compared to traditional approaches .
Over 90% of individuals in Housing First programs maintain housing stability.
Housing First has been found to be particularly effective for people experiencing chronic homelessness.
Cost-Effective Solution
Not only does Housing First improve lives, but it also proves to be cost-effective for communities. Studies have shown that Housing First programs can result in significant cost savings by reducing the use of emergency services, hospitals, and jails.
Conclusion
As we continue to grapple with the complex issue of homelessness, the Housing First model offers a compassionate and effective approach. By prioritizing stable housing and then addressing other needs, we can make significant strides in ending homelessness and improving lives.
This August, let's reflect on how we can support and implement Housing First initiatives in our communities, working together towards a future where everyone has a safe place to live.
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