EXPLORING EFFECTIVE SYSTEMS RESPONSES TO HOMELESSNESS

PROGRAM AND SERVICE-LEVEL COLLABORATION
The CASH program is also viewed as having several successes. A vast majority of
participants believe that the process of wait-listing and accessing supported housing
has improved since the implementation of the CASH program. Specifically, a single
application and wait-listing process are desirable and seen as streamlining access
to supported housing. Many participants hoped and a number believed accessing
supported housing is now more equitable. Enhanced relationships among partners
are welcome outcomes of the CASH program. Lastly, statistics now available
through the CASH database may, through a variety of reports, provide evidence
of the challenges CASH faces and point to potential solutions such as a need for
more housing options and how groups of individuals such as people identifying as
Aboriginal, individuals with complex needs and those in recovery may be better
served by CASH or other programs.
The CASH program is also
viewed as having several
successes. A vast majority
of participants believe that
the process of wait-listing
and accessing supported
housing has improved
since the implementation
of the CASH program.
CONCLUSION
The primary question to be answered in this evaluation was: to what degree is CASH
meeting its stated objectives? CASH clearly meets two of its stated objectives (a single
housing application/access point and “any door is the right door” for submitting
referrals). Several other objectives – a transparent and clear selection and referral
process, timely referrals and efficient use of supported housing resources – are only
partially met. This result stems from an intersection of four factors: a lack of affordable
and supported housing, an unwieldy referral and wait-listing process, an absence of
detailed information around waiting list processes and lack of client involvement
and participation. We were unable to determine if housing providers are sharing best
practices in delivering supported housing; however, there is evidence of enhanced
relationships and collaboration among housing providers. Clearly, in the absence of
an affordable supply of housing, it is impossible to align with critical Housing First
principles such as direct and immediate access to housing, client choice and selfdetermination.
However, principles of social inclusion and client participation could
and should be incorporated given that such programs directly impact clients’ lives.
49