Beating the Odds on Chronic Homelessness in Minneapolis
December 22, 2023 by The article discusses Hennepin County’s successful efforts to reduce chronic homelessness in Minneapolis through a combination of funding, community engagement, and a housing-first approach. Since 2017, the county has moved over 1,500 chronically homeless residents into permanent housing, reducing the chronic homeless population by nearly 36% by the end of 2023. The county’s strategy includes using a “by-name” list to track and address individual housing needs and prioritizing housing for the most vulnerable. Despite the progress, challenges remain, such as rising housing costs and the need for sustained funding. The article highlights the importance of tailored interventions and the potential for other cities to learn from Hennepin County’s approach.