Understanding the Needs

A whole progression of support steps may be needed to help a person who is homeless. It may start with making appropriate supportive services available to people in difficulty, whether on the street or in risky housing situations. It may be necessary to provide accommodation and assistance in emergency shelters. The goal is to provide homeless persons access to transitional housing, to permanent housing and independence.

In some circumstances, long term housing with continued support is needed. This progression could require continual support as every individual has different needs as they move from their vulnerable circumstances to more stable living conditions. This transition takes time and every individual will progress at a different pace depending on their own circumstances. Even once more permanent housing is achieved continued follow-up support could be required to prevent a return to homelessness.