This article emphasizes the effectiveness of the Housing First approach, which prioritizes providing permanent supportive housing to the homeless, followed by tailored services.  It counters misconceptions that the homeless choose to be without shelter, citing studies showing a strong desire for stable housing and the need for assistance in accessing it. The piece highlights the systemic issues contributing to homelessness, such as the lack of affordable housing and livable wages, with evidence that a full-time minimum wage worker cannot afford a modest apartment anywhere in the US1. It also presents data from randomized controlled trials demonstrating that Housing First interventions lead to long-term housing stability and reduced reliance on emergency services. The article concludes by urging policymakers to invest in proven solutions like permanent supportive housing to address the nationwide increase in homelessness.  It references supportive housing programs in Tomball, Texas; Denver, Colorado; Santa Clara County, California; Seattle, Washington; and Los Angeles, California.

https://housingmatters.urban.org/feature/housing-first-still-best-approach-ending-homelessness