A Housing First evaluation project for homeless Veterans in Canada: Quantitative findings

Abstract: Introduction: The objectives of this Housing First intervention were to enhance coordination/integration in the provision of housing and other support services for Veterans experiencing homelessness, to improve access to housing, and to support successful transitioning from homelessness into housing. Methods: Th is two-year evaluation project was conducted from May 2012 to June 2014 in four Canadian cities: Toronto, London, Calgary, and Victoria. Housing First principles, comprising of in-home and peer support to better housing stability, were implemented within a range of housing types. Interviews with Veterans were completed at baseline (time of enrollment), 3, 9, and 15 months later. Results: A total of 58 participants received the intervention (53 males, 5 females) with a mean age of 52.5 years old. At baseline (Time I), 23 Veterans reported absolute homelessness, but at nine-month follow-up (Time III), this report of homelessness was signifi cantly reduced to 3 ( p = 0.003). Th ere was an overall decrease in health service utilization, including telephone appointments, service provider and drop-in centre visits, crisis service phone calls, and ambulance rides. A signifi cant decrease in emergency room visits was also observed ( p < 0.001). No changes were noted in quality-of-life scores. Cost analyses revealed the program cost CAD$1,670.92 per Veteran over a six-month period compared to shelter beds, which averaged CAD$2,826.67. Discussion: This study demonstrates that a Housing First intervention can be a cost-eff ective approach that provides stable housing and improved access to mental health, addiction, medical, and income supports. Further research should be undertaken to replicate this study with larger populations and with a longer follow-up period.

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