Rapid re-housing initiatives
Local governments can invest in this strategy using State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
- This strategy can help support healthy living environments and assist residents as they navigate public benefits programs. The U.S. Department of Treasury has indicated that strategies that help achieve these outcomes are eligible for the use of Fiscal Recovery Funds.
Investments in this strategy are SLFRF-eligible as long as they are made in qualified census tracts or are designed to assist populations or communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.
Program basics
- Help individuals or families experiencing homeless quickly move into permanent housing
- Services can include housing search assistance, case management, social services, financial assistance, and rent negotiations
- Participation generally lasts 4–6 months
Strength of evidence
Evidence level: Strong (second-highest tier)
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Strong (second-highest tier)
Ranked as having the second-highest level of evidence by County Health Rankings and Roadmaps
Target population
Individuals experiencing homelessness
Program cost
Approximately $900 per family
Implementation locations
- Nationwide
- Built for Zero - Abilene, TX
Dates active
Not available
Outcomes and impact
- Reduces the amount of time households experience homelessness
- May decrease rates of homelessness and increase turnover rates at shelters
- May improve household income, employment, financial stability, food security, physical and mental health, and general well-being
Keys to successful implementation
- Note: This content is under review
- Programs should focus on three main components: housing identification, rent and move-in assistance, and case management and services.
- Families are more easily transitioned out of temporary housing when programs have developed strong relationships with community institutions.
- Programs should offer a range of services to clients, including financial literacy help, streamlined access to public benefits, health care, transportation solutions, and mental health assistance
