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Housing First Partners Conference 2024 - Agenda 


Monday, April 8, 2024

Pre-Conference Institutes
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM PCI 1 | DESC's Housing First Principles and Practical Interventions
The Housing First philosophy, which is the cornerstone of all DESC housing, embraces the notion that vulnerable clients are more easily engaged in robust clinical services and experience greater success by first eliminating the chaos of homelessness. The Housing First philosophy insists that a safe and permanent apartment serves as the foundation upon which clients can recover. However, this approach doesn’t come without its fair share of challenges.
PCI 2 | Pathways’ Housing First: As Program and as Community Strategy
Presenters will describe the principles and practices of the Pathways Housing First program. Topics include: how the program works, who it serves, and program effectiveness. We will also describe how the Housing First principles and practices can be used to organize a city-wide approach to ending chronic homelessness. The session is designed as interactive, encouraging audience participation.
PCI 3 | Overcoming Barriers to a Thriving Homelessness System Workforce
In this workshop, Homebase will explore emerging strategies that homeless system and provider agency leadership are deploying to cultivate a resilient workforce. Across the country, low wages and burnout have resulted in high rates of turnover and attrition. Highlighting specific community examples, research, and promising practices, this interactive workshop will engage participants in understanding actionable approaches to achieving a living wage and fostering wellness, belonging, and retention across a diverse workforce.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch on your own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:30 PM - 4:30 PM PCI 4 | Housing First Program Fidelity: What is Fidelity? How Does a Program Achieve Program Fidelity? And Why Does it Matter?
This session describes the Pathways Program Fidelity Scale and how it used to assess program services and outcomes. In an interactive segment workshop participants are invited to evaluate their own programs using the scale. Topics also include the use of the HF program fidelity scale in research and as a useful program quality improvement instrument.
PCI 5 | Innovations in Crisis Response: Bridging Gaps in Behavioral Health and Overdose Prevention
Join us for an immersive pre-conference institute dedicated to advancing crisis response and prevention strategies in the realms of behavioral health and overdose. This comprehensive session will delve into the multifaceted challenges posed by behavioral health crises and the escalating concerns surrounding overdose incidents. Participants will gain insights into evidence-based practices, innovative interventions, and collaborative models that address the complex interplay between mental health and substance use, featuring insights from trailblazing programs such as Pathways’ Soteria House in Vermont, DESC’s Mobile Response initiatives and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
PCI 6 | Trauma-Informed Supervision
A trauma-informed approach is not just for tenants or clients. The principles of trauma-informed care can be used to develop supportive relationships with staff that recognize the impact of traumatic experiences and exposure to trauma. As a supervisor, you are in a unique position to build trauma-informed supervisory practices that reduce the risk of re-traumatization, recognize the impact of trauma in the workplace and provide a sense of emotional safety and respect. This workshop, led by the Corporation for Supportive Housing, will begin by identifying trauma-informed principles to help improve your supervisory skills. Facilitators will explore how to approach supervision through a trauma-informed lens that utilizes feedback, self-awareness, and the creation of a safe space in order to increase staff retention and reduce burnout.
VA Institute | On the Path to Ending Homelessness Among Veterans: Triumphs and challenges in implementing Housing First
This preconference institute is designed for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) staff and community partners working with the VA.
Pre-Conference Institutes
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM PCI 1 | DESC's Housing First Principles and Practical Interventions
The Housing First philosophy, which is the cornerstone of all DESC housing, embraces the notion that vulnerable clients are more easily engaged in robust clinical services and experience greater success by first eliminating the chaos of homelessness. The Housing First philosophy insists that a safe and permanent apartment serves as the foundation upon which clients can recover. However, this approach doesn’t come without its fair share of challenges.
PCI 2 | Pathways’ Housing First: As Program and as Community Strategy
Presenters will describe the principles and practices of the Pathways Housing First program. Topics include: how the program works, who it serves, and program effectiveness. We will also describe how the Housing First principles and practices can be used to organize a city-wide approach to ending chronic homelessness. The session is designed as interactive, encouraging audience participation.
PCI 3 | Overcoming Barriers to a Thriving Homelessness System Workforce
In this workshop, Homebase will explore emerging strategies that homeless system and provider agency leadership are deploying to cultivate a resilient workforce. Across the country, low wages and burnout have resulted in high rates of turnover and attrition. Highlighting specific community examples, research, and promising practices, this interactive workshop will engage participants in understanding actionable approaches to achieving a living wage and fostering wellness, belonging, and retention across a diverse workforce.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch on your own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:30 PM - 4:30 PM PCI 4 | Housing First Program Fidelity: What is Fidelity? How Does a Program Achieve Program Fidelity? And Why Does it Matter?
This session describes the Pathways Program Fidelity Scale and how it used to assess program services and outcomes. In an interactive segment workshop participants are invited to evaluate their own programs using the scale. Topics also include the use of the HF program fidelity scale in research and as a useful program quality improvement instrument.
PCI 5 | Innovations in Crisis Response: Bridging Gaps in Behavioral Health and Overdose Prevention
Join us for an immersive pre-conference institute dedicated to advancing crisis response and prevention strategies in the realms of behavioral health and overdose. This comprehensive session will delve into the multifaceted challenges posed by behavioral health crises and the escalating concerns surrounding overdose incidents. Participants will gain insights into evidence-based practices, innovative interventions, and collaborative models that address the complex interplay between mental health and substance use, featuring insights from trailblazing programs such as Pathways’ Soteria House in Vermont, DESC’s Mobile Response initiatives and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
PCI 6 | Trauma-Informed Supervision
A trauma-informed approach is not just for tenants or clients. The principles of trauma-informed care can be used to develop supportive relationships with staff that recognize the impact of traumatic experiences and exposure to trauma. As a supervisor, you are in a unique position to build trauma-informed supervisory practices that reduce the risk of re-traumatization, recognize the impact of trauma in the workplace and provide a sense of emotional safety and respect. This workshop, led by the Corporation for Supportive Housing, will begin by identifying trauma-informed principles to help improve your supervisory skills. Facilitators will explore how to approach supervision through a trauma-informed lens that utilizes feedback, self-awareness, and the creation of a safe space in order to increase staff retention and reduce burnout.
VA Institute | On the Path to Ending Homelessness Among Veterans: Triumphs and challenges in implementing Housing First
This preconference institute is designed for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) staff and community partners working with the VA.

Pre-Conference Institutes
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM PCI 1 | DESC's Housing First Principles and Practical Interventions
The Housing First philosophy, which is the cornerstone of all DESC housing, embraces the notion that vulnerable clients are more easily engaged in robust clinical services and experience greater success by first eliminating the chaos of homelessness. The Housing First philosophy insists that a safe and permanent apartment serves as the foundation upon which clients can recover. However, this approach doesn’t come without its fair share of challenges.
PCI 2 | Pathways’ Housing First: As Program and as Community Strategy
Presenters will describe the principles and practices of the Pathways Housing First program. Topics include: how the program works, who it serves, and program effectiveness. We will also describe how the Housing First principles and practices can be used to organize a city-wide approach to ending chronic homelessness. The session is designed as interactive, encouraging audience participation.
PCI 3 | Overcoming Barriers to a Thriving Homelessness System Workforce
In this workshop, Homebase will explore emerging strategies that homeless system and provider agency leadership are deploying to cultivate a resilient workforce. Across the country, low wages and burnout have resulted in high rates of turnover and attrition. Highlighting specific community examples, research, and promising practices, this interactive workshop will engage participants in understanding actionable approaches to achieving a living wage and fostering wellness, belonging, and retention across a diverse workforce.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch on your own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:30 PM - 4:30 PM PCI 4 | Housing First Program Fidelity: What is Fidelity? How Does a Program Achieve Program Fidelity? And Why Does it Matter?
This session describes the Pathways Program Fidelity Scale and how it used to assess program services and outcomes. In an interactive segment workshop participants are invited to evaluate their own programs using the scale. Topics also include the use of the HF program fidelity scale in research and as a useful program quality improvement instrument.
PCI 5 | Innovations in Crisis Response: Bridging Gaps in Behavioral Health and Overdose Prevention
Join us for an immersive pre-conference institute dedicated to advancing crisis response and prevention strategies in the realms of behavioral health and overdose. This comprehensive session will delve into the multifaceted challenges posed by behavioral health crises and the escalating concerns surrounding overdose incidents. Participants will gain insights into evidence-based practices, innovative interventions, and collaborative models that address the complex interplay between mental health and substance use, featuring insights from trailblazing programs such as Pathways’ Soteria House in Vermont, DESC’s Mobile Response initiatives and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
PCI 6 | Trauma-Informed Supervision
A trauma-informed approach is not just for tenants or clients. The principles of trauma-informed care can be used to develop supportive relationships with staff that recognize the impact of traumatic experiences and exposure to trauma. As a supervisor, you are in a unique position to build trauma-informed supervisory practices that reduce the risk of re-traumatization, recognize the impact of trauma in the workplace and provide a sense of emotional safety and respect. This workshop, led by the Corporation for Supportive Housing, will begin by identifying trauma-informed principles to help improve your supervisory skills. Facilitators will explore how to approach supervision through a trauma-informed lens that utilizes feedback, self-awareness, and the creation of a safe space in order to increase staff retention and reduce burnout.
VA Institute | On the Path to Ending Homelessness Among Veterans: Triumphs and challenges in implementing Housing First
This preconference institute is designed for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) staff and community partners working with the VA.

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Plenary
Workshop
Special Event
8:15 AM - 10:15 AM Opening Breakfast Plenary | The Pursuit of Freedom and Dignity: From Locked Up to Leased Up
Homelessness exposes people to trauma and repeated interactions with law enforcement that lead to fines and arrest. Having a criminal record can create barriers to housing, employment, and social inclusion. After serving their time, releasees often return to homelessness because they are locked out of housing options. This panel presents alternatives for breaking these patterns and helping people go from locked up to leased up.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM 101 | How State Agencies Can Lead and Support Housing First Practices
The MDVA, as a cabinet-level state agency, has been instrumental in bringing partners from across Minnesota into alignment to develop an innovative and dynamic, Homeless Veteran Response System. We want to share lessons we’ve learned in our efforts to innovate, develop, and implement Housing First strategies using data to inform.
102 | The Homeless Outreach Stabilization and Transition (HOST) Program in Action
HOST utilizes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team that provides outreach-based treatment services reaching those least likely to engage in conventional physical and behavioral health service. We will discuss the statewide expansion of HOST; the challenges, successes, and differences across counties; and the successful collaboration with the local homeless crisis response system.
103 | Housing First Narrative Learning Lab: Building support to solve homelessness
In order to move policy, we need to move people first. At a time when Housing First is under under attack, this learning lab shows how we can face this critical time by advancing a new narrative about how people thrive when they have a home. This lab will show why we need to shape narratives that build support for Housing First as a solution to solve homelessness with participants working on how to advance narratives that move people to action.
104 | De-Escalation: Interpersonal to Systemic
We use many lenses to make sense of the world we inhabit. This session will construct a lens using concepts of escalation and de-escalation and their application to both interpersonal and systemic relationships. We will use these concepts to identify elements of our communities which create conflict and explore alternatives to facilitate connection and understanding.
105 | Conflict Is Inevitable! Transforming Conflict Into Collaboration & Healing!
While it’s understood that housing is one of the primary solutions to homelessness, many young people struggle with the design of available programs embodying conditional support and replicating carceral culture. How can we embrace conflict and survival behaviors (violence, substance use, hoarding) as opportunities for healing, transformation, and housing stability?
106 | Housing First as a Tool for Housing Justice
The term “housing justice” has gained prominence in recent years, but there is no shared understanding of what housing justice means and how it relates to Housing First. This session provides a framework for understanding housing justice and exploring how Housing First fits within broader efforts to advance housing justice.
107 | Expanding Behavioral Healthcare for People Experiencing Homelessness in Rural Hawaii
Exploring the complexities of initiating clinical and behavioral health care services in diverse and rural communities, this presentation includes discussions about challenges, bright spots, and strategies to cultivate trusting partnerships with healthcare systems and providers to deliver expansive, person-centered approaches to the population we serve.
108 | Engaging and Empowering Residents in PSH with Creative Writing!
This highly interactive session will help providers learn the basics of conducting Creative Writing Groups or one-time workshops at PSH or shelter sites. Attention will be paid to the benefits of encouraging clients to explore and grow through poetry and stories and the significance of clients attending community open readings.
109 | Overcoming Relational Poverty through Neighbor to Neighbor
The absence of networks of support, i.e., relational poverty, is a significant issue, even for those in Housing First facilities. This session will explore relational poverty and its physical and emotional impact on those without homes. One important strategy for overcoming this major problem is being explored in a pilot study, The Neighbor to Neighbor Project in Kelowna, British Columbia. Matching volunteers from faith-based groups to newly housed individuals, the project facilitates opportunities to develop relationships with neighbors, thus fostering community integration.
110 | Housing First Outcomes in a Rural California Community
We will discuss housing first outcomes including racial and ethnic equity for the people and families served; percentage of subsidies used for rent vs. deposits vs. damages; retention in housing after one and two years; the percentage decline in psychiatric, hospital, and emergency departments; and reduction in jail bookings.
111 | Addressing Housing Barriers and Medical Needs through Multi-funder PSH Collaborative
AT Home is a first of its kind, multi-partner, 5-year initiative bringing together local governments, philanthropies, healthcare partners, and non-profits to deliver permanent supportive housing to over 200 neighbors experiencing chronic homelessness. This session will leverage diverse breakout groups to foster collaboration and identify innovative ways to solve common challenges.
11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Lunch on own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM 112 | Housing First, Not Housing Only: Promoting Understanding in Rural and Urban Communities
Communities push back on Housing First because they do not understand the research that supports the practice, nor the outcomes that rise from it. This can be even more profound in rural communities, where common values include independence and self-reliance. This session will introduce some of the recent data that underlines the effectiveness of Housing First. The session will cover some of the myths and realities about being unhoused and offer ways to use the realities to combat community push-back. It will also include examples of the resourcefulness and resilience that comes with implementing Housing First in areas with vast geographies and lengthy windshield time between services and clients, and lack of rental housing. It will also examine what Housing First does and does not do and encourage participants to think through ways they can combat negative community pressure.
113 | Culturally Specific Support Services for Native Americans- Outreach to Housing
The presentation will focus on the processes and culturally specific approaches the NARA NW housing team uses from outreach to housing when working w/ Elders, Veterans, Individuals, and Families in an Urban Native American area. We will address the barriers, challenges, and successes with our experiences and tools/ways to use.
114 | Pets as Participants: Preventing Barriers to Housing Pets
In an effort to keep pets and participants together in their shared journey toward housing, there are several preventative steps that can be taken from first engagement at outreach through interim housing placement and ultimately to permanent housing that ensure a pet can safely stay with their pet parent. This includes staff buy in, pet programming, pet care, and awareness of participant rights.
115 | Contingency Management in PSH: Evidence-based Treatment for Substance Use Disorder
Contingency management (CM) has been proven to be an effective behavioral intervention to combat substance use disorders. However, it has only been primarily tested and delivered in clinic-based settings. Plymouth Housing will deliver CM outside a formal treatment environment in PSH to share learnings, successes, and challenges.
116 | Collaborative Approaches to Addressing Hoarding: Team and Community Models
Hoarding poses significant risks to safety and housing security. To preserve housing and wellness in a hoarding situation, a collaborative approach across services and specialties is required to move from crisis to calm. Innovations on multi-layered team and community approaches will be shared as well as prevention and maintenance strategies.
117 | HUD-VASH Aging and Disabled Homeless Veterans Initiative
Homelessness among older adults is increasing amongst Veterans served in Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) programs aged 55 years and older. Ending homelessness among older adults will require increasing the supply of affordable housing, targeted prevention efforts, and expanding permanent supportive housing, adapted to older adult needs.
118 | Behavioral Health for Seniors: Managing Challenging Behaviors
This workshop will provide an experiential learning opportunity for clinicians, property managers, and other professionals to identify, understand, and respond to common mental and medical conditions that may contribute to challenging behaviors in residents of affordable independent living, assisted living, and permanent supportive housing communities.
119 | Building a Sustainable Workforce through Wages and Wellness
Prior to the pandemic, low wages and employee wellness programs in social work were inadequate, leading to higher rates of turnover. These issues were amplified during the pandemic/ongoing opioid epidemic. DESC took a multi-faceted approach in creating wage increases and wellness support that have led to increased employee satisfaction, personal equanimity, and resilience.
120 | Realizing the Potential of Olmstead with Housing First
Creating access to affordable housing is a significant challenge on its own. Combined with an Olmstead solution that requires moving 3,000 people largely from institutional settings the challenge seems insurmountable. This workshop will discuss local and statewide efforts to build a supportive housing system to meet more than one hundred Dept. of Justice-imposed requirements
121 | Facilitators of Housing Placements in a Coordinated Entry System
This qualitative study of King County, WA’s coordinated entry (CE) system explores facilitators of moving individuals from housing referral to housing placement. Interviews and focus groups with tenants, direct service staff, and policy leaders revealed strong connections with service providers, housing choice, and flexibility with documentation requirements were key facilitators.
122 | Implementing CAPABLE for older adults in permanent supportive housing
CAPABLE, which stands for Community Aging in Place-Advancing Better Living for Elders, is a time-limited, evidence-based intervention that helps older adults live independently through home visits conducted by a nurse and occupational therapist team. We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial with older adult tenants in permanent supportive housing (PSH) and found improvements in basic and instrumental activities of daily living and other function-related parameters. This presentation will review the findings from this pilot study, identify the challenges of implementing CAPABLE in PSH, and discuss opportunities to disseminate CAPABLE in PSH more generally.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM 123 | Words Matter! Decreasing Stigma Using Mindful & Ethical Communication
Stigma and bias can often be found rooted in the language used to communicate about marginalized and disadvantaged clients seeking services. The presence of stigma and bias in electronic health records, emails, texts, and conversations has been shown to create a negative experience for the client. Poorly chosen language can cause care teams to inadvertently adopt non-therapeutic attitudes towards clients that decrease an individual’s desire to pursue healthcare and housing opportunities. This workshop will do a deep dive into how we communicate about clients and how stigma and bias in language can impact the entire healthcare and housing continuum.
124 | Hoarding and Harm Reduction: Tools for a Cleaner House
Using a case study we will review Hoarding Disorder basics, including symptoms and neurology. We will discuss Harm Reduction and how it's used with resistant clients by presenting interventions, tools, and strategies applicable to hoarding cases one may encounter as a human service professional or a loved one.
125 | Housing First & Jobs First: Complementary Practices and Stabilizing Solutions
Housing First and Jobs First are complementary models supporting access and stability to individuals experiencing homelessness. This session will equip participants with information on Friendship Place’s model and experiences in providing jobs first programming to diverse populations, integration with various housing approaches, and advocacy for wider use of the model.
126 | Stabilizing PSH Programs in the Face of Potential Shutdown
From 2020 to 2023 in Washington State, we saw unprecedented changes in landlord/tenant law, limited resources for low income individuals, and high demand for emergency services. We will look at how the combination of these elements resulted in the de-stabilization of a Housing First PSH program and the steps that were taken to re-stabilize.
127 | Housing First for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking
Housing First has proven to be an effective method to serve people experiencing homelessness. This interactive session will explore how to use Housing First to ensure immediate safety and housing stabilization for domestic violence and human trafficking survivors-while navigating the unique needs and supports needed to secure permanent housing retention.
128 | KEYS to Success: RRH Implementation for Young Adults with HIV
KEYS (Keep Empowering Young Adults to Succeed) is an innovative rapid rehousing program that provides individuals 18 – 30 years of age living with HIV access to housing and wraparound support services. This workshop will examine how KEYS centers lived experiences of a uniquely vulnerable population to provide life-changing services.
129 | Leveraging Healthcare Partnerships for Housing First Goals
The workshop will provide an overview of California’s Medicaid housing-related services, how counties have leveraged Medicaid funding to provide services for clients, how managed care plans are collaborating with CoCs to expand access to housing and support services, and the role of CoCs in helping clients maintain access to Medicaid.
130 | The Value of Peers: Leading with Lived Expertise
The Housing First model has been grounded in peer support since its founding. This session will highlight three key areas in which peers support engagement and connection to services while centering the consumer: 1) leveraging Resident Advisory Boards, 2) providing support and service connections, and 3) informing eviction prevention strategies.
131 | Thriving Teams: Comms, Care, and Culture for Non-Profit Retention Success
For the past five years, The Center in Hollywood has prioritized employee retention and development. Agency vacancy rates are consistently below 10% and the average tenure of frontline workers is double industry norms. Participants will learn practical, cost effective tools for retaining and developing high-performing team members– even through staffing shortages!
132 | Homecoming: Life after Incarceration Video Project
“Homecoming: Life after Incarceration” is a multimedia toolkit designed to highlight the challenges and struggles people experience as they try to re-enter society. Homecoming showcases examples of organizations and individuals who are leading the way in supporting the reentry population. It likewise highlights the connections between HIV and incarceration and the challenges and opportunities that exist in addressing the housing and healthcare needs of people living with HIV when exiting jails and prisons. www.hudexchange.info/homecoming In the first half of Episode VI: Trauma and Dignity, we attend a reentry-led workshop on understanding and addressing trauma and examine the cyclical nature of trauma. In the second half, formerly incarcerated individuals share what dignity means to them, and talk about finding light in the darkness. The filmmakers will be on hand to answer questions and engage in dialogue with participants after the 35-minute screening.
133 | From Courtship to Marriage: Landlord Engagement and Unit Acquisition
LA Family Housing and Open Doors Atlanta are national leaders in property engagement with more than 50 years of experience collectively. Participants will learn best practices for landlord recruitment and long-term relationship management, innovative tools for market analysis leading to greater unit acquisition, and strategies designed to produce more successful and faster housing outcomes.
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM 134 | Unit Condition Response Team: A Multi-disciplinary Approach
The Unit Condition Response Team (UCRT) is a multidisciplinary pilot program dedicated to managing and maintaining unit conditions in 3 Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) sites operated by Downtown Emergency Service Center (DESC): Hobson Place, North Star, and Interbay Place. UCRT is focused on providing additional resources, counseling, and skills building to assist individuals with maintaining their housing and quality of life with a trauma-informed and harm reduction-centered approach.
135 | Street Level Women at Risk: A Collaborative Housing First Model
By weaving the lived experience of former street-involved sex workers through the service pathway, this presentation will describe an informed 26-agency Housing First collaborative response aimed at supporting women who are chronically homeless and engaged in survival sex work with long-term housing stability.
136 | Faith-based or Evidence-based? Why Not Both! Innovations in Religious Partnerships
Faith-based organizations hold enormous power and influence in our sector but are often resistant/antagonistic to best practices like Housing First. Kevin will share his successes/failures with getting faith groups across the country on board. Ben will then share an innovative pilot project in Los Angeles addressing LGBTQ+ youth fleeing religious persecution.
138 | The Benefits and Tools for Plain Language Leasing
Learn how to utilize plain language tools to enhance residents' understanding of affordable housing rights. Lease documents and LIHTC compliance often present complexity. Through collaboration, The Kelsey and Disability Rights California offer free tools, prioritizing support for all residents, especially those with intellectual disabilities and English language learners.
139 | Supporting Survivors through Rapid Re-Housing and Housing Navigation
Domestic Violence survivors are the largest subpopulation of homeless individuals in the Los Angeles CoC. Survivors of domestic violence face systemic barriers that afford them less access to permanent housing programs. This presentation will discuss the best practices and lessons learned from Housing First programs that lower barriers for survivors.
140 | CoLEAD Staffing Support Model: Care, Relationship, and Retention
The Housing First service model requires innovation, strategy, and a sustainable workforce. To build and maintain a strong team, CoLEAD instituted a Staffing Care Model that intentionally and methodically supports case management and leadership needs, utilizing wellness techniques and varying implementation strategies. This workshop will offer an overview.
141 | Health and Housing Transition Team: Community Partners Improving Housing Outcomes
The Road Home has partnered with 4th St Clinic and Huntsman Mental Health Institute to bring clinical, psychiatric, and peer support onsite at The Magnolia, The Road Home's newest site-based permanent supportive housing program. This team intervenes onsite to prevent evictions, and creates or strengthens community connections for their residents.
142 | Peer Specialists Leading Community Connections
As the premier Shared Recovery Housing model in Los Angeles, SHARE! Collaborative Housing has developed fundamental practices for maximizing Peer Services to promote empowerment and community connection. Peer Specialists use the evidence-based Peer practices of Peer Listening and Disclosing, Helper-Therapy, Self-Help Support groups to nurture community and autonomy.
143 | Assessing Programs Using the Pathways Program Fidelity Scale
This session describes the Pathways Housing First Program Fidelity Scale and how it is used to assess program services and outcomes. In an interactive segment, workshop participants are invited to evaluate their own programs using the scale. Topics also include the use of the HF program fidelity scale in research and as a useful tool for program quality improvement.
144 | Lessons from the Los Angeles Housing First Sharing Exchange
Differences in funding, staffing, regulations, and even how communities understand and define Housing First have all contributed to conflicting feelings about how this evidence-based model has been implemented. In this session, a team comprising consultants with lived expertise and CSH staff will share their experiences In creating the Housing First Sharing Exchange, which will be a learning opportunity for participants regarding the Housing First fidelity scale, and for tenants to score their own experiences in PSH The HFSharing Exchange will be a launching pad for increased advocacy and accountability from local, state, and national partners to ensure that Housing First is being practiced to fidelity– and not in name only. Attendees will be invited to share their experiences with Housing First approaches and engage in discussions to identify solutions for strengthening the model to meet tenant, program, city, and state-level needs.
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Welcome Reception
Join us for the Welcome Reception! This vibrant gathering marks the beginning of the conference, providing a relaxing setting for attendees to mingle and connect. Enjoy the musical rhythms from our entertainment while engaging with fellow participants. Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or forging new relationships, this reception guarantees a spirited start to the conference filled with camaraderie and excitement. Don't pass up this opportunity to unwind, network, and celebrate our shared commitment to end homelessness through Housing First!
Plenary
Workshop
8:15 AM - 10:15 AM Opening Breakfast Plenary | The Pursuit of Freedom and Dignity: From Locked Up to Leased Up
Homelessness exposes people to trauma and repeated interactions with law enforcement that lead to fines and arrest. Having a criminal record can create barriers to housing, employment, and social inclusion. After serving their time, releasees often return to homelessness because they are locked out of housing options. This panel presents alternatives for breaking these patterns and helping people go from locked up to leased up.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM 101 | How State Agencies Can Lead and Support Housing First Practices
The MDVA, as a cabinet-level state agency, has been instrumental in bringing partners from across Minnesota into alignment to develop an innovative and dynamic, Homeless Veteran Response System. We want to share lessons we’ve learned in our efforts to innovate, develop, and implement Housing First strategies using data to inform.
102 | The Homeless Outreach Stabilization and Transition (HOST) Program in Action
HOST utilizes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team that provides outreach-based treatment services reaching those least likely to engage in conventional physical and behavioral health service. We will discuss the statewide expansion of HOST; the challenges, successes, and differences across counties; and the successful collaboration with the local homeless crisis response system.
103 | Housing First Narrative Learning Lab: Building support to solve homelessness
In order to move policy, we need to move people first. At a time when Housing First is under under attack, this learning lab shows how we can face this critical time by advancing a new narrative about how people thrive when they have a home. This lab will show why we need to shape narratives that build support for Housing First as a solution to solve homelessness with participants working on how to advance narratives that move people to action.
104 | De-Escalation: Interpersonal to Systemic
We use many lenses to make sense of the world we inhabit. This session will construct a lens using concepts of escalation and de-escalation and their application to both interpersonal and systemic relationships. We will use these concepts to identify elements of our communities which create conflict and explore alternatives to facilitate connection and understanding.
105 | Conflict Is Inevitable! Transforming Conflict Into Collaboration & Healing!
While it’s understood that housing is one of the primary solutions to homelessness, many young people struggle with the design of available programs embodying conditional support and replicating carceral culture. How can we embrace conflict and survival behaviors (violence, substance use, hoarding) as opportunities for healing, transformation, and housing stability?
106 | Housing First as a Tool for Housing Justice
The term “housing justice” has gained prominence in recent years, but there is no shared understanding of what housing justice means and how it relates to Housing First. This session provides a framework for understanding housing justice and exploring how Housing First fits within broader efforts to advance housing justice.
107 | Expanding Behavioral Healthcare for People Experiencing Homelessness in Rural Hawaii
Exploring the complexities of initiating clinical and behavioral health care services in diverse and rural communities, this presentation includes discussions about challenges, bright spots, and strategies to cultivate trusting partnerships with healthcare systems and providers to deliver expansive, person-centered approaches to the population we serve.
108 | Engaging and Empowering Residents in PSH with Creative Writing!
This highly interactive session will help providers learn the basics of conducting Creative Writing Groups or one-time workshops at PSH or shelter sites. Attention will be paid to the benefits of encouraging clients to explore and grow through poetry and stories and the significance of clients attending community open readings.
109 | Overcoming Relational Poverty through Neighbor to Neighbor
The absence of networks of support, i.e., relational poverty, is a significant issue, even for those in Housing First facilities. This session will explore relational poverty and its physical and emotional impact on those without homes. One important strategy for overcoming this major problem is being explored in a pilot study, The Neighbor to Neighbor Project in Kelowna, British Columbia. Matching volunteers from faith-based groups to newly housed individuals, the project facilitates opportunities to develop relationships with neighbors, thus fostering community integration.
110 | Housing First Outcomes in a Rural California Community
We will discuss housing first outcomes including racial and ethnic equity for the people and families served; percentage of subsidies used for rent vs. deposits vs. damages; retention in housing after one and two years; the percentage decline in psychiatric, hospital, and emergency departments; and reduction in jail bookings.
111 | Addressing Housing Barriers and Medical Needs through Multi-funder PSH Collaborative
AT Home is a first of its kind, multi-partner, 5-year initiative bringing together local governments, philanthropies, healthcare partners, and non-profits to deliver permanent supportive housing to over 200 neighbors experiencing chronic homelessness. This session will leverage diverse breakout groups to foster collaboration and identify innovative ways to solve common challenges.
11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Lunch on own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM 112 | Housing First, Not Housing Only: Promoting Understanding in Rural and Urban Communities
Communities push back on Housing First because they do not understand the research that supports the practice, nor the outcomes that rise from it. This can be even more profound in rural communities, where common values include independence and self-reliance. This session will introduce some of the recent data that underlines the effectiveness of Housing First. The session will cover some of the myths and realities about being unhoused and offer ways to use the realities to combat community push-back. It will also include examples of the resourcefulness and resilience that comes with implementing Housing First in areas with vast geographies and lengthy windshield time between services and clients, and lack of rental housing. It will also examine what Housing First does and does not do and encourage participants to think through ways they can combat negative community pressure.
113 | Culturally Specific Support Services for Native Americans- Outreach to Housing
The presentation will focus on the processes and culturally specific approaches the NARA NW housing team uses from outreach to housing when working w/ Elders, Veterans, Individuals, and Families in an Urban Native American area. We will address the barriers, challenges, and successes with our experiences and tools/ways to use.
114 | Pets as Participants: Preventing Barriers to Housing Pets
In an effort to keep pets and participants together in their shared journey toward housing, there are several preventative steps that can be taken from first engagement at outreach through interim housing placement and ultimately to permanent housing that ensure a pet can safely stay with their pet parent. This includes staff buy in, pet programming, pet care, and awareness of participant rights.
115 | Contingency Management in PSH: Evidence-based Treatment for Substance Use Disorder
Contingency management (CM) has been proven to be an effective behavioral intervention to combat substance use disorders. However, it has only been primarily tested and delivered in clinic-based settings. Plymouth Housing will deliver CM outside a formal treatment environment in PSH to share learnings, successes, and challenges.
116 | Collaborative Approaches to Addressing Hoarding: Team and Community Models
Hoarding poses significant risks to safety and housing security. To preserve housing and wellness in a hoarding situation, a collaborative approach across services and specialties is required to move from crisis to calm. Innovations on multi-layered team and community approaches will be shared as well as prevention and maintenance strategies.
117 | HUD-VASH Aging and Disabled Homeless Veterans Initiative
Homelessness among older adults is increasing amongst Veterans served in Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) programs aged 55 years and older. Ending homelessness among older adults will require increasing the supply of affordable housing, targeted prevention efforts, and expanding permanent supportive housing, adapted to older adult needs.
118 | Behavioral Health for Seniors: Managing Challenging Behaviors
This workshop will provide an experiential learning opportunity for clinicians, property managers, and other professionals to identify, understand, and respond to common mental and medical conditions that may contribute to challenging behaviors in residents of affordable independent living, assisted living, and permanent supportive housing communities.
119 | Building a Sustainable Workforce through Wages and Wellness
Prior to the pandemic, low wages and employee wellness programs in social work were inadequate, leading to higher rates of turnover. These issues were amplified during the pandemic/ongoing opioid epidemic. DESC took a multi-faceted approach in creating wage increases and wellness support that have led to increased employee satisfaction, personal equanimity, and resilience.
120 | Realizing the Potential of Olmstead with Housing First
Creating access to affordable housing is a significant challenge on its own. Combined with an Olmstead solution that requires moving 3,000 people largely from institutional settings the challenge seems insurmountable. This workshop will discuss local and statewide efforts to build a supportive housing system to meet more than one hundred Dept. of Justice-imposed requirements
121 | Facilitators of Housing Placements in a Coordinated Entry System
This qualitative study of King County, WA’s coordinated entry (CE) system explores facilitators of moving individuals from housing referral to housing placement. Interviews and focus groups with tenants, direct service staff, and policy leaders revealed strong connections with service providers, housing choice, and flexibility with documentation requirements were key facilitators.
122 | Implementing CAPABLE for older adults in permanent supportive housing
CAPABLE, which stands for Community Aging in Place-Advancing Better Living for Elders, is a time-limited, evidence-based intervention that helps older adults live independently through home visits conducted by a nurse and occupational therapist team. We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial with older adult tenants in permanent supportive housing (PSH) and found improvements in basic and instrumental activities of daily living and other function-related parameters. This presentation will review the findings from this pilot study, identify the challenges of implementing CAPABLE in PSH, and discuss opportunities to disseminate CAPABLE in PSH more generally.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM 123 | Words Matter! Decreasing Stigma Using Mindful & Ethical Communication
Stigma and bias can often be found rooted in the language used to communicate about marginalized and disadvantaged clients seeking services. The presence of stigma and bias in electronic health records, emails, texts, and conversations has been shown to create a negative experience for the client. Poorly chosen language can cause care teams to inadvertently adopt non-therapeutic attitudes towards clients that decrease an individual’s desire to pursue healthcare and housing opportunities. This workshop will do a deep dive into how we communicate about clients and how stigma and bias in language can impact the entire healthcare and housing continuum.
124 | Hoarding and Harm Reduction: Tools for a Cleaner House
Using a case study we will review Hoarding Disorder basics, including symptoms and neurology. We will discuss Harm Reduction and how it's used with resistant clients by presenting interventions, tools, and strategies applicable to hoarding cases one may encounter as a human service professional or a loved one.
125 | Housing First & Jobs First: Complementary Practices and Stabilizing Solutions
Housing First and Jobs First are complementary models supporting access and stability to individuals experiencing homelessness. This session will equip participants with information on Friendship Place’s model and experiences in providing jobs first programming to diverse populations, integration with various housing approaches, and advocacy for wider use of the model.
126 | Stabilizing PSH Programs in the Face of Potential Shutdown
From 2020 to 2023 in Washington State, we saw unprecedented changes in landlord/tenant law, limited resources for low income individuals, and high demand for emergency services. We will look at how the combination of these elements resulted in the de-stabilization of a Housing First PSH program and the steps that were taken to re-stabilize.
127 | Housing First for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking
Housing First has proven to be an effective method to serve people experiencing homelessness. This interactive session will explore how to use Housing First to ensure immediate safety and housing stabilization for domestic violence and human trafficking survivors-while navigating the unique needs and supports needed to secure permanent housing retention.
128 | KEYS to Success: RRH Implementation for Young Adults with HIV
KEYS (Keep Empowering Young Adults to Succeed) is an innovative rapid rehousing program that provides individuals 18 – 30 years of age living with HIV access to housing and wraparound support services. This workshop will examine how KEYS centers lived experiences of a uniquely vulnerable population to provide life-changing services.
129 | Leveraging Healthcare Partnerships for Housing First Goals
The workshop will provide an overview of California’s Medicaid housing-related services, how counties have leveraged Medicaid funding to provide services for clients, how managed care plans are collaborating with CoCs to expand access to housing and support services, and the role of CoCs in helping clients maintain access to Medicaid.
130 | The Value of Peers: Leading with Lived Expertise
The Housing First model has been grounded in peer support since its founding. This session will highlight three key areas in which peers support engagement and connection to services while centering the consumer: 1) leveraging Resident Advisory Boards, 2) providing support and service connections, and 3) informing eviction prevention strategies.
131 | Thriving Teams: Comms, Care, and Culture for Non-Profit Retention Success
For the past five years, The Center in Hollywood has prioritized employee retention and development. Agency vacancy rates are consistently below 10% and the average tenure of frontline workers is double industry norms. Participants will learn practical, cost effective tools for retaining and developing high-performing team members– even through staffing shortages!
132 | Homecoming: Life after Incarceration Video Project
“Homecoming: Life after Incarceration” is a multimedia toolkit designed to highlight the challenges and struggles people experience as they try to re-enter society. Homecoming showcases examples of organizations and individuals who are leading the way in supporting the reentry population. It likewise highlights the connections between HIV and incarceration and the challenges and opportunities that exist in addressing the housing and healthcare needs of people living with HIV when exiting jails and prisons. www.hudexchange.info/homecoming In the first half of Episode VI: Trauma and Dignity, we attend a reentry-led workshop on understanding and addressing trauma and examine the cyclical nature of trauma. In the second half, formerly incarcerated individuals share what dignity means to them, and talk about finding light in the darkness. The filmmakers will be on hand to answer questions and engage in dialogue with participants after the 35-minute screening.
133 | From Courtship to Marriage: Landlord Engagement and Unit Acquisition
LA Family Housing and Open Doors Atlanta are national leaders in property engagement with more than 50 years of experience collectively. Participants will learn best practices for landlord recruitment and long-term relationship management, innovative tools for market analysis leading to greater unit acquisition, and strategies designed to produce more successful and faster housing outcomes.
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM 134 | Unit Condition Response Team: A Multi-disciplinary Approach
The Unit Condition Response Team (UCRT) is a multidisciplinary pilot program dedicated to managing and maintaining unit conditions in 3 Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) sites operated by Downtown Emergency Service Center (DESC): Hobson Place, North Star, and Interbay Place. UCRT is focused on providing additional resources, counseling, and skills building to assist individuals with maintaining their housing and quality of life with a trauma-informed and harm reduction-centered approach.
135 | Street Level Women at Risk: A Collaborative Housing First Model
By weaving the lived experience of former street-involved sex workers through the service pathway, this presentation will describe an informed 26-agency Housing First collaborative response aimed at supporting women who are chronically homeless and engaged in survival sex work with long-term housing stability.
136 | Faith-based or Evidence-based? Why Not Both! Innovations in Religious Partnerships
Faith-based organizations hold enormous power and influence in our sector but are often resistant/antagonistic to best practices like Housing First. Kevin will share his successes/failures with getting faith groups across the country on board. Ben will then share an innovative pilot project in Los Angeles addressing LGBTQ+ youth fleeing religious persecution.
138 | The Benefits and Tools for Plain Language Leasing
Learn how to utilize plain language tools to enhance residents' understanding of affordable housing rights. Lease documents and LIHTC compliance often present complexity. Through collaboration, The Kelsey and Disability Rights California offer free tools, prioritizing support for all residents, especially those with intellectual disabilities and English language learners.
139 | Supporting Survivors through Rapid Re-Housing and Housing Navigation
Domestic Violence survivors are the largest subpopulation of homeless individuals in the Los Angeles CoC. Survivors of domestic violence face systemic barriers that afford them less access to permanent housing programs. This presentation will discuss the best practices and lessons learned from Housing First programs that lower barriers for survivors.
140 | CoLEAD Staffing Support Model: Care, Relationship, and Retention
The Housing First service model requires innovation, strategy, and a sustainable workforce. To build and maintain a strong team, CoLEAD instituted a Staffing Care Model that intentionally and methodically supports case management and leadership needs, utilizing wellness techniques and varying implementation strategies. This workshop will offer an overview.
141 | Health and Housing Transition Team: Community Partners Improving Housing Outcomes
The Road Home has partnered with 4th St Clinic and Huntsman Mental Health Institute to bring clinical, psychiatric, and peer support onsite at The Magnolia, The Road Home's newest site-based permanent supportive housing program. This team intervenes onsite to prevent evictions, and creates or strengthens community connections for their residents.
142 | Peer Specialists Leading Community Connections
As the premier Shared Recovery Housing model in Los Angeles, SHARE! Collaborative Housing has developed fundamental practices for maximizing Peer Services to promote empowerment and community connection. Peer Specialists use the evidence-based Peer practices of Peer Listening and Disclosing, Helper-Therapy, Self-Help Support groups to nurture community and autonomy.
143 | Assessing Programs Using the Pathways Program Fidelity Scale
This session describes the Pathways Housing First Program Fidelity Scale and how it is used to assess program services and outcomes. In an interactive segment, workshop participants are invited to evaluate their own programs using the scale. Topics also include the use of the HF program fidelity scale in research and as a useful tool for program quality improvement.
144 | Lessons from the Los Angeles Housing First Sharing Exchange
Differences in funding, staffing, regulations, and even how communities understand and define Housing First have all contributed to conflicting feelings about how this evidence-based model has been implemented. In this session, a team comprising consultants with lived expertise and CSH staff will share their experiences In creating the Housing First Sharing Exchange, which will be a learning opportunity for participants regarding the Housing First fidelity scale, and for tenants to score their own experiences in PSH The HFSharing Exchange will be a launching pad for increased advocacy and accountability from local, state, and national partners to ensure that Housing First is being practiced to fidelity– and not in name only. Attendees will be invited to share their experiences with Housing First approaches and engage in discussions to identify solutions for strengthening the model to meet tenant, program, city, and state-level needs.
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Special Event
8:15 AM - 10:15 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Lunch on own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Welcome Reception
Join us for the Welcome Reception! This vibrant gathering marks the beginning of the conference, providing a relaxing setting for attendees to mingle and connect. Enjoy the musical rhythms from our entertainment while engaging with fellow participants. Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or forging new relationships, this reception guarantees a spirited start to the conference filled with camaraderie and excitement. Don't pass up this opportunity to unwind, network, and celebrate our shared commitment to end homelessness through Housing First!

Plenary
8:15 AM - 10:15 AM Opening Breakfast Plenary | The Pursuit of Freedom and Dignity: From Locked Up to Leased Up
Homelessness exposes people to trauma and repeated interactions with law enforcement that lead to fines and arrest. Having a criminal record can create barriers to housing, employment, and social inclusion. After serving their time, releasees often return to homelessness because they are locked out of housing options. This panel presents alternatives for breaking these patterns and helping people go from locked up to leased up.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Lunch on own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Workshop
8:15 AM - 10:15 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM 101 | How State Agencies Can Lead and Support Housing First Practices
The MDVA, as a cabinet-level state agency, has been instrumental in bringing partners from across Minnesota into alignment to develop an innovative and dynamic, Homeless Veteran Response System. We want to share lessons we’ve learned in our efforts to innovate, develop, and implement Housing First strategies using data to inform.
102 | The Homeless Outreach Stabilization and Transition (HOST) Program in Action
HOST utilizes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team that provides outreach-based treatment services reaching those least likely to engage in conventional physical and behavioral health service. We will discuss the statewide expansion of HOST; the challenges, successes, and differences across counties; and the successful collaboration with the local homeless crisis response system.
103 | Housing First Narrative Learning Lab: Building support to solve homelessness
In order to move policy, we need to move people first. At a time when Housing First is under under attack, this learning lab shows how we can face this critical time by advancing a new narrative about how people thrive when they have a home. This lab will show why we need to shape narratives that build support for Housing First as a solution to solve homelessness with participants working on how to advance narratives that move people to action.
104 | De-Escalation: Interpersonal to Systemic
We use many lenses to make sense of the world we inhabit. This session will construct a lens using concepts of escalation and de-escalation and their application to both interpersonal and systemic relationships. We will use these concepts to identify elements of our communities which create conflict and explore alternatives to facilitate connection and understanding.
105 | Conflict Is Inevitable! Transforming Conflict Into Collaboration & Healing!
While it’s understood that housing is one of the primary solutions to homelessness, many young people struggle with the design of available programs embodying conditional support and replicating carceral culture. How can we embrace conflict and survival behaviors (violence, substance use, hoarding) as opportunities for healing, transformation, and housing stability?
106 | Housing First as a Tool for Housing Justice
The term “housing justice” has gained prominence in recent years, but there is no shared understanding of what housing justice means and how it relates to Housing First. This session provides a framework for understanding housing justice and exploring how Housing First fits within broader efforts to advance housing justice.
107 | Expanding Behavioral Healthcare for People Experiencing Homelessness in Rural Hawaii
Exploring the complexities of initiating clinical and behavioral health care services in diverse and rural communities, this presentation includes discussions about challenges, bright spots, and strategies to cultivate trusting partnerships with healthcare systems and providers to deliver expansive, person-centered approaches to the population we serve.
108 | Engaging and Empowering Residents in PSH with Creative Writing!
This highly interactive session will help providers learn the basics of conducting Creative Writing Groups or one-time workshops at PSH or shelter sites. Attention will be paid to the benefits of encouraging clients to explore and grow through poetry and stories and the significance of clients attending community open readings.
109 | Overcoming Relational Poverty through Neighbor to Neighbor
The absence of networks of support, i.e., relational poverty, is a significant issue, even for those in Housing First facilities. This session will explore relational poverty and its physical and emotional impact on those without homes. One important strategy for overcoming this major problem is being explored in a pilot study, The Neighbor to Neighbor Project in Kelowna, British Columbia. Matching volunteers from faith-based groups to newly housed individuals, the project facilitates opportunities to develop relationships with neighbors, thus fostering community integration.
110 | Housing First Outcomes in a Rural California Community
We will discuss housing first outcomes including racial and ethnic equity for the people and families served; percentage of subsidies used for rent vs. deposits vs. damages; retention in housing after one and two years; the percentage decline in psychiatric, hospital, and emergency departments; and reduction in jail bookings.
111 | Addressing Housing Barriers and Medical Needs through Multi-funder PSH Collaborative
AT Home is a first of its kind, multi-partner, 5-year initiative bringing together local governments, philanthropies, healthcare partners, and non-profits to deliver permanent supportive housing to over 200 neighbors experiencing chronic homelessness. This session will leverage diverse breakout groups to foster collaboration and identify innovative ways to solve common challenges.
11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Lunch on own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM 112 | Housing First, Not Housing Only: Promoting Understanding in Rural and Urban Communities
Communities push back on Housing First because they do not understand the research that supports the practice, nor the outcomes that rise from it. This can be even more profound in rural communities, where common values include independence and self-reliance. This session will introduce some of the recent data that underlines the effectiveness of Housing First. The session will cover some of the myths and realities about being unhoused and offer ways to use the realities to combat community push-back. It will also include examples of the resourcefulness and resilience that comes with implementing Housing First in areas with vast geographies and lengthy windshield time between services and clients, and lack of rental housing. It will also examine what Housing First does and does not do and encourage participants to think through ways they can combat negative community pressure.
113 | Culturally Specific Support Services for Native Americans- Outreach to Housing
The presentation will focus on the processes and culturally specific approaches the NARA NW housing team uses from outreach to housing when working w/ Elders, Veterans, Individuals, and Families in an Urban Native American area. We will address the barriers, challenges, and successes with our experiences and tools/ways to use.
114 | Pets as Participants: Preventing Barriers to Housing Pets
In an effort to keep pets and participants together in their shared journey toward housing, there are several preventative steps that can be taken from first engagement at outreach through interim housing placement and ultimately to permanent housing that ensure a pet can safely stay with their pet parent. This includes staff buy in, pet programming, pet care, and awareness of participant rights.
115 | Contingency Management in PSH: Evidence-based Treatment for Substance Use Disorder
Contingency management (CM) has been proven to be an effective behavioral intervention to combat substance use disorders. However, it has only been primarily tested and delivered in clinic-based settings. Plymouth Housing will deliver CM outside a formal treatment environment in PSH to share learnings, successes, and challenges.
116 | Collaborative Approaches to Addressing Hoarding: Team and Community Models
Hoarding poses significant risks to safety and housing security. To preserve housing and wellness in a hoarding situation, a collaborative approach across services and specialties is required to move from crisis to calm. Innovations on multi-layered team and community approaches will be shared as well as prevention and maintenance strategies.
117 | HUD-VASH Aging and Disabled Homeless Veterans Initiative
Homelessness among older adults is increasing amongst Veterans served in Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) programs aged 55 years and older. Ending homelessness among older adults will require increasing the supply of affordable housing, targeted prevention efforts, and expanding permanent supportive housing, adapted to older adult needs.
118 | Behavioral Health for Seniors: Managing Challenging Behaviors
This workshop will provide an experiential learning opportunity for clinicians, property managers, and other professionals to identify, understand, and respond to common mental and medical conditions that may contribute to challenging behaviors in residents of affordable independent living, assisted living, and permanent supportive housing communities.
119 | Building a Sustainable Workforce through Wages and Wellness
Prior to the pandemic, low wages and employee wellness programs in social work were inadequate, leading to higher rates of turnover. These issues were amplified during the pandemic/ongoing opioid epidemic. DESC took a multi-faceted approach in creating wage increases and wellness support that have led to increased employee satisfaction, personal equanimity, and resilience.
120 | Realizing the Potential of Olmstead with Housing First
Creating access to affordable housing is a significant challenge on its own. Combined with an Olmstead solution that requires moving 3,000 people largely from institutional settings the challenge seems insurmountable. This workshop will discuss local and statewide efforts to build a supportive housing system to meet more than one hundred Dept. of Justice-imposed requirements
121 | Facilitators of Housing Placements in a Coordinated Entry System
This qualitative study of King County, WA’s coordinated entry (CE) system explores facilitators of moving individuals from housing referral to housing placement. Interviews and focus groups with tenants, direct service staff, and policy leaders revealed strong connections with service providers, housing choice, and flexibility with documentation requirements were key facilitators.
122 | Implementing CAPABLE for older adults in permanent supportive housing
CAPABLE, which stands for Community Aging in Place-Advancing Better Living for Elders, is a time-limited, evidence-based intervention that helps older adults live independently through home visits conducted by a nurse and occupational therapist team. We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial with older adult tenants in permanent supportive housing (PSH) and found improvements in basic and instrumental activities of daily living and other function-related parameters. This presentation will review the findings from this pilot study, identify the challenges of implementing CAPABLE in PSH, and discuss opportunities to disseminate CAPABLE in PSH more generally.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM 123 | Words Matter! Decreasing Stigma Using Mindful & Ethical Communication
Stigma and bias can often be found rooted in the language used to communicate about marginalized and disadvantaged clients seeking services. The presence of stigma and bias in electronic health records, emails, texts, and conversations has been shown to create a negative experience for the client. Poorly chosen language can cause care teams to inadvertently adopt non-therapeutic attitudes towards clients that decrease an individual’s desire to pursue healthcare and housing opportunities. This workshop will do a deep dive into how we communicate about clients and how stigma and bias in language can impact the entire healthcare and housing continuum.
124 | Hoarding and Harm Reduction: Tools for a Cleaner House
Using a case study we will review Hoarding Disorder basics, including symptoms and neurology. We will discuss Harm Reduction and how it's used with resistant clients by presenting interventions, tools, and strategies applicable to hoarding cases one may encounter as a human service professional or a loved one.
125 | Housing First & Jobs First: Complementary Practices and Stabilizing Solutions
Housing First and Jobs First are complementary models supporting access and stability to individuals experiencing homelessness. This session will equip participants with information on Friendship Place’s model and experiences in providing jobs first programming to diverse populations, integration with various housing approaches, and advocacy for wider use of the model.
126 | Stabilizing PSH Programs in the Face of Potential Shutdown
From 2020 to 2023 in Washington State, we saw unprecedented changes in landlord/tenant law, limited resources for low income individuals, and high demand for emergency services. We will look at how the combination of these elements resulted in the de-stabilization of a Housing First PSH program and the steps that were taken to re-stabilize.
127 | Housing First for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking
Housing First has proven to be an effective method to serve people experiencing homelessness. This interactive session will explore how to use Housing First to ensure immediate safety and housing stabilization for domestic violence and human trafficking survivors-while navigating the unique needs and supports needed to secure permanent housing retention.
128 | KEYS to Success: RRH Implementation for Young Adults with HIV
KEYS (Keep Empowering Young Adults to Succeed) is an innovative rapid rehousing program that provides individuals 18 – 30 years of age living with HIV access to housing and wraparound support services. This workshop will examine how KEYS centers lived experiences of a uniquely vulnerable population to provide life-changing services.
129 | Leveraging Healthcare Partnerships for Housing First Goals
The workshop will provide an overview of California’s Medicaid housing-related services, how counties have leveraged Medicaid funding to provide services for clients, how managed care plans are collaborating with CoCs to expand access to housing and support services, and the role of CoCs in helping clients maintain access to Medicaid.
130 | The Value of Peers: Leading with Lived Expertise
The Housing First model has been grounded in peer support since its founding. This session will highlight three key areas in which peers support engagement and connection to services while centering the consumer: 1) leveraging Resident Advisory Boards, 2) providing support and service connections, and 3) informing eviction prevention strategies.
131 | Thriving Teams: Comms, Care, and Culture for Non-Profit Retention Success
For the past five years, The Center in Hollywood has prioritized employee retention and development. Agency vacancy rates are consistently below 10% and the average tenure of frontline workers is double industry norms. Participants will learn practical, cost effective tools for retaining and developing high-performing team members– even through staffing shortages!
132 | Homecoming: Life after Incarceration Video Project
“Homecoming: Life after Incarceration” is a multimedia toolkit designed to highlight the challenges and struggles people experience as they try to re-enter society. Homecoming showcases examples of organizations and individuals who are leading the way in supporting the reentry population. It likewise highlights the connections between HIV and incarceration and the challenges and opportunities that exist in addressing the housing and healthcare needs of people living with HIV when exiting jails and prisons. www.hudexchange.info/homecoming In the first half of Episode VI: Trauma and Dignity, we attend a reentry-led workshop on understanding and addressing trauma and examine the cyclical nature of trauma. In the second half, formerly incarcerated individuals share what dignity means to them, and talk about finding light in the darkness. The filmmakers will be on hand to answer questions and engage in dialogue with participants after the 35-minute screening.
133 | From Courtship to Marriage: Landlord Engagement and Unit Acquisition
LA Family Housing and Open Doors Atlanta are national leaders in property engagement with more than 50 years of experience collectively. Participants will learn best practices for landlord recruitment and long-term relationship management, innovative tools for market analysis leading to greater unit acquisition, and strategies designed to produce more successful and faster housing outcomes.
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM 134 | Unit Condition Response Team: A Multi-disciplinary Approach
The Unit Condition Response Team (UCRT) is a multidisciplinary pilot program dedicated to managing and maintaining unit conditions in 3 Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) sites operated by Downtown Emergency Service Center (DESC): Hobson Place, North Star, and Interbay Place. UCRT is focused on providing additional resources, counseling, and skills building to assist individuals with maintaining their housing and quality of life with a trauma-informed and harm reduction-centered approach.
135 | Street Level Women at Risk: A Collaborative Housing First Model
By weaving the lived experience of former street-involved sex workers through the service pathway, this presentation will describe an informed 26-agency Housing First collaborative response aimed at supporting women who are chronically homeless and engaged in survival sex work with long-term housing stability.
136 | Faith-based or Evidence-based? Why Not Both! Innovations in Religious Partnerships
Faith-based organizations hold enormous power and influence in our sector but are often resistant/antagonistic to best practices like Housing First. Kevin will share his successes/failures with getting faith groups across the country on board. Ben will then share an innovative pilot project in Los Angeles addressing LGBTQ+ youth fleeing religious persecution.
138 | The Benefits and Tools for Plain Language Leasing
Learn how to utilize plain language tools to enhance residents' understanding of affordable housing rights. Lease documents and LIHTC compliance often present complexity. Through collaboration, The Kelsey and Disability Rights California offer free tools, prioritizing support for all residents, especially those with intellectual disabilities and English language learners.
139 | Supporting Survivors through Rapid Re-Housing and Housing Navigation
Domestic Violence survivors are the largest subpopulation of homeless individuals in the Los Angeles CoC. Survivors of domestic violence face systemic barriers that afford them less access to permanent housing programs. This presentation will discuss the best practices and lessons learned from Housing First programs that lower barriers for survivors.
140 | CoLEAD Staffing Support Model: Care, Relationship, and Retention
The Housing First service model requires innovation, strategy, and a sustainable workforce. To build and maintain a strong team, CoLEAD instituted a Staffing Care Model that intentionally and methodically supports case management and leadership needs, utilizing wellness techniques and varying implementation strategies. This workshop will offer an overview.
141 | Health and Housing Transition Team: Community Partners Improving Housing Outcomes
The Road Home has partnered with 4th St Clinic and Huntsman Mental Health Institute to bring clinical, psychiatric, and peer support onsite at The Magnolia, The Road Home's newest site-based permanent supportive housing program. This team intervenes onsite to prevent evictions, and creates or strengthens community connections for their residents.
142 | Peer Specialists Leading Community Connections
As the premier Shared Recovery Housing model in Los Angeles, SHARE! Collaborative Housing has developed fundamental practices for maximizing Peer Services to promote empowerment and community connection. Peer Specialists use the evidence-based Peer practices of Peer Listening and Disclosing, Helper-Therapy, Self-Help Support groups to nurture community and autonomy.
143 | Assessing Programs Using the Pathways Program Fidelity Scale
This session describes the Pathways Housing First Program Fidelity Scale and how it is used to assess program services and outcomes. In an interactive segment, workshop participants are invited to evaluate their own programs using the scale. Topics also include the use of the HF program fidelity scale in research and as a useful tool for program quality improvement.
144 | Lessons from the Los Angeles Housing First Sharing Exchange
Differences in funding, staffing, regulations, and even how communities understand and define Housing First have all contributed to conflicting feelings about how this evidence-based model has been implemented. In this session, a team comprising consultants with lived expertise and CSH staff will share their experiences In creating the Housing First Sharing Exchange, which will be a learning opportunity for participants regarding the Housing First fidelity scale, and for tenants to score their own experiences in PSH The HFSharing Exchange will be a launching pad for increased advocacy and accountability from local, state, and national partners to ensure that Housing First is being practiced to fidelity– and not in name only. Attendees will be invited to share their experiences with Housing First approaches and engage in discussions to identify solutions for strengthening the model to meet tenant, program, city, and state-level needs.
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Special Event
8:15 AM - 10:15 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Lunch on own
HFPC attendees will receive a discounted rate for a special buffet offered at the Southern Elements restaurant located in the Hilton. Click here for menu and pricing
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Welcome Reception
Join us for the Welcome Reception! This vibrant gathering marks the beginning of the conference, providing a relaxing setting for attendees to mingle and connect. Enjoy the musical rhythms from our entertainment while engaging with fellow participants. Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or forging new relationships, this reception guarantees a spirited start to the conference filled with camaraderie and excitement. Don't pass up this opportunity to unwind, network, and celebrate our shared commitment to end homelessness through Housing First!

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

Plenary
Workshop
Special Event
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Coffee with Sam Tsemberis
This is an open forum, an informal hour, unscripted, where you are welcome to talk about any homelessness related topic; ask questions, make comments or observations, share knowledge and ideas, and enjoy a cup of coffee among other kindred spirits.
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 201 | Housing's the Solution: Learning from the Hilton Foundation’s S25 Initiative
The Hilton Foundation’s S25 Homelessness Initiative aims to work systemically to prevent and reduce homelessness and eradicate racial disparities by focusing on housing as the solution to homelessness. This presentation explores the early successes and challenges of implementing the Initiative and provides lessons learnings for other communities.
202 | High-fidelity Housing First/Harm Reduction Housing in the Opioid Epidemic
Housing First and Harm Reduction are best practice modalities. The implementation in housing programs is often a “lite” version of them. However, the opioid epidemic requires high-fidelity adherence. This session describes Avivo’s site-based, high-fidelity housing programs and outlines the importance of partnerships between building owners, service providers, the security team, and property management.
203 | Lessons from Canada: Updates on Housing First for Youth research
Housing First for Youth (HF4Y) is an adaptation of Housing First designed to meet the needs of developing adolescents and updates on results of a 48 month RCT. In mobilizing this knowledge, we examine efforts and challenges in taking HF4Y to scale in Canada and Europe.
204 | Addressing Community Encampments with a Hotel to Housing Pilot
This presentation highlights a hotel pilot in Columbus, Ohio where 13 individuals at a community encampment were assisted in relocating to a hotel while outreach, supportive services and community volunteers worked on rehousing. The pilot is complete. The goal now is on program and system improvements based on its success.
205 | What Unhoused Women Want: Findings from LA’s Women’s Needs Assessment
Downtown Women’s Center partnered with Hub for Urban Initiatives and the Urban Institute to conduct the Los Angeles County Women's Needs Assessment. This is the largest needs assessment that exists for unhoused women in the country, and our presentation will share out pivotal findings as well as trauma-informed practice recommendations.
206 | Housing Is Survival: Meaningful Access for People on Criminal Registries
The purpose of this session is to explore the current limitations and systemic barriers faced by people on criminal registries when navigating housing, and to challenge a diversity of stakeholders to envision what housing justice looks like for all instead of for some.
207 | Cracking The Code To Real-time Bed Availability
Founder of GET HELP, Tony Greco, clinical psychologist and recovering addict with extensive lived experience homelessness and Suzanne Williams, an expert on building harmonious homeless and recovery systems, share their experience in cracking the real-time bed availability code, a feat no one has yet been able to accomplish. From the sidewalks of Los Angeles’ Skid Row to the streets and train stations of St. Louis to the corners of Portland’s Pioneer Courthouse Square, through the highways and byways of urban and rural Oklahoma, and all stops in between, Tony and Suzanne sought to understand the unique and dynamic landscapes we navigate as we endeavor to serve those who are unhoused and the unique opportunities in our communities to partner in sharing real-time bed availability and access to services. They will share with you their methodology, a methodology which is critical as we solve complex human problems, a methodology that requires the insights that can only come from lived, human experience as we seek recovery from one of the most challenging problems human civilization has ever faced: homelessness.
208 | Recipe for Success: Tenant Leadership in the Flexible Housing Pool
The Chicago and Cook County Flexible Housing Pool (FHP) is a supportive housing project funded through public/private partnerships between government, managed care, health systems, and philanthropy. FHP goals: reduce crisis system use and increase housing stability. To achieve success, the FHP centers tenant leadership to inform services and program outcomes.
209 | Miracle Friends and Miracle Money in California: A mixed-methods experiment of social support and guaranteed income for people experiencing homelessness
In May of 2022, we began recruitment into a randomized controlled trial to study the impact of Miracle Money (M$), which is a basic income and social support intervention for people experiencing homelessness. Since then, 103 people experiencing homelessness in California have been randomly selected to receive $750 per month for 1 year. This presentation will consider how the 69 people who have received at least 6 monthly payments are doing compared to a control group (n=86) who accessed usual homeless services. The two key findings thus far include that people who received M$ for 6 months are: (1) less likely to be unsheltered as compared to those who accessed usual services; and (2) have fewer unmet basic needs as compared to those who accessed usual services. Self-reported monthly budget allocation of funds and the role of a social support provided by a “phone buddy” as part of the program will be discussed.
210 | Individual Crisis Outreach in PSH
Proactively reaching out to housed clients in crisis is essential for early intervention, trust-building, and preventing isolation. By offering timely support, empowerment, and resources, we enhance stability and program impact while advocating for systemic change. Our dedication strengthens both individual well-being and community resilience.
211 | Transforming Service Delivery Models in PSH
Addressing homelessness requires an approach that addresses the needs of people experiencing homelessness, the causes of homelessness, and behavioral health supports. We will focus on long-term sustainability of Housing First Assertive Community Treatment and Intensive Case Management for unhoused individuals with severe mental illness and/or addiction in permanent supportive housing.
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM 212 | Domestic Violence Housing First
The Domestic Violence Housing First (DVHF) approach focuses on getting survivors into stable housing as quickly as possible, and providing the necessary support as they rebuild their lives. This session will review the primary components of DVHF; impact of flexible funds; benefits of survivor-centered advocacy; and importance of community engagement.
214 | Ecological Perspective in Individual Intervention – Towards a Purpositive Community Integration
Long-term outcomes of community integration of people with homeless experiences require a renovated articulation of the capabilities approach, recovery, and empowerment perspectives generating opportunities for individual expression and critical reflection. The availability of support programs focused on maintaining housing options, participation, employment, and education is crucial for outcome quality.
215 | CoLEAD: An Innovative Model of Justice and Housing
Learn about CoLEAD, an intensive stabilization harm reduction-oriented program of LEAD that entails a best practice approach to outreach and engagement from encampments to temporary lodging to permanent housing. This jail alternative program addresses community safety with a golden thread of stability from shelter through aftercare support in permanent housing.
216 | Optimizing Interdisciplinary Teams within a Housing First Program
The use of community health workers (CHWs) on a Housing First care team is a proven strategy. For individuals with chronic homelessness, physical health conditions can be complex and high risk. Learn how CHWs can efficiently and effectively team with clinical care team members to support participants' holistic needs.
217 | Housing Navigation for Trans Folks through an Affirming Lens
Through incorporating a community-driven, housing-first, and person-centered approach, Trans Housing Coalition's services exemplify how there is still room for expanding best practices for serving a historically underserved community experiencing homelessness. Presenters will also incorporate an experiential learning component to highlight the experiences of the community we serve.
218 | The Importance of Understanding the Root of Indigenous Homelessness
Homelessness began at the initial displacement, oppression, and colonization towards the Indigenous people of Turtle Island (Canada).To effectively support and come alongside our Indigenous people, we need to start at the root of Indigenous homelessness and examine the impacts of residential schools, trauma, systemic racism. Participants will learn best practices, and cultural awareness
219 | The Making of “All In” All-Stars: Stories from the Field
The progress toward ending homelessness lies in an organization’s greatest asset: Staff! This session will dive into the Federal Strategic Plan (“All In”) related to the homeless services workforce and feature strategies with interviewing, engagement, and personnel investments that lead to diverse recruiting and increased retention amidst a competitive market.
220 | Integrating Supportive Services in PSH with Primary and Behavioral Health
This presentation highlights a 35-year collaboration between a homeless service provider and a "federally qualified" health center (FQHC). Our changing approach over the years was designed to measurably improve health among individuals in PSH with recent results published in the American Journal of Public Health. We will discuss what has worked and considerations when replicating.
221 | Aging in Place: Concepts and Interventions in the Housing First Context
“Aging in Place” is often an ill-defined and overused term. This presentation will: (1) explore how best to think about what is means to age in place in PSH, (2) provide an overview of current research, and (3) share examples of emerging interventions for managing and mitigating challenges.
222 | California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness: An Overview
In this workshop, we will present key findings from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness, the largest representative study in the U.S. in 30 years. This groundbreaking study recruited a representative sample of all adults experiencing homelessness in CA. Using surveys and in-depth interviews, we examined who experience homelessness, the precipitants of homelessness, the experiences of homelessness, and the barriers to regaining housing. In this workshop, the study’s principal investigator, the director of community engagement (who led one of the qualitative studies) and two members of the influential Lived Expertise Advisory Board will lead an Interactive discussion of the methods, findings and key recommendations.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 223 | Connecting for Life: Ensuring HF4Y Is Successful
This session focuses on the 5th core principle of Housing First for Youth (HF4Y): Social inclusion & Community Integration. To successfully transition out of homelessness and into adulthood, youth need connections to community, culture, and family & natural/chosen supports. These connections can support youth long after services end and help to prevent adult homelessness.
224 | An Innovative Partnership in Seattle, WA Houses 100+ At-risk Homeless Adults
This presentation focuses on real-life strategies that staff with Harborview Housing First (HHF) used to help stably house over 100 formerly homeless individuals. HHF is a scattered-sites model that leverage significant federal funds through the Shelter Plus Care program. The presenter will highlight participants' strong housing retention rates describe a number of engagement methods guiding HHF's approach, and review several case studies.
225 | Imaginative Design for Congregate PSH Community
In this presentation, we will highlight the innovation of creating a congregate PSH community by remodeling and transforming a church. We will walk through this process by sharing the variety of community partners involved in the planning, the integration into the neighborhood and hear success stories from a resident's perspective.
226 | From State Psychiatric Hospital to Housing First: A Virginia Initiative
Housing First is a safe alternative to adult living facilities, but there are challenges to timely and effective use when discharging people from psychiatric hospitals. A strategic partnership between a rural hospital and community services provider is improving system integration. The project also addresses safety concerns and added capacity to Housing First.
227 | Introducing Charge-Up! Team-based Housing Supports for Young Adults
This session describes a new intervention called Charge Up!, which was co-developed with young adults and rapid rehousing (RRH) case managers to provide support to young adults as they transition into RRH. We share our adaptation process and our successes and challenges as a co-creation team developing Charge Up!
228 | The Finnish Way of Ending Homelessness
The Finnish solution for tackling homelessness is simple. People experiencing homelessness need permanent accommodation and in many cases support. Finland's housing policy has undergone significant shifts, with a prolonged focus on constructing state-subsidized affordable housing. In tandem with this evolution, a pivotal milestone was the adoption of the Finnish Housing First model in 2008, setting Finland apart as a global leader. Unlike many countries, the Housing First model seamlessly integrated into the national homelessness strategy, transcending the status of a mere pilot or project to become a fundamental paradigm guiding all homelessness initiatives. A noteworthy thing of this approach is the transformation of hostels and emergency shelters into permanent housing, exemplifying the commitment to sustainable solutions. The Housing First model, central to this strategy, works in tandem with proactive preventive measures, recognizing the interdependence of the two in the effort to eliminate homelessness. In Finland, the simultaneous development of both components has not only provided secure housing for those who were homeless but has also worked diligently to minimize instances of homelessness from occurring in the first place. The assertion that ending homelessness is not a utopian ideal but a tangible reality in Finland underscores the success of this comprehensive approach. Through a thoughtful combination of housing policies, innovative models, and preventive measures, Finland has demonstrated that homelessness can be effectively addressed and, in the future, ended.
229 | Building Capacity and Supporting Front-line Workers in Homelessness Services
Tenancies won’t be successful without support from front-line workers. It is a challenging job, with special skills in a demanding environment. Traditional education systems do not have programs related to homelessness. In Ottawa, our homelessness service agencies have a central place to receive training and support based on research.
230 | PSH at a Crossroads: Housing First and Thriving People Also Means Sustainable Assets and Stable Organizations
It is important to elevate awareness that the PSH industry is in a “crossroads” moment. There are unique pressures on operating budgets from rising expenses and reduced income, and other challenges as owners work with maturing Coordinated Entry systems to efficiently lease-up buildings and best serve referrals with complex health and housing stability barriers. This session will look more deeply at the recent policy and economic trends that are reshaping PSH design and operations. We will pay attention to some of the unique preservation needs of the earliest PSH properties that were put in service decades ago while highlighting warning signs that affect the future of the entire site-based PSH universe, old and new. We will also spotlight examples across the country where local officials and other critical stakeholders are planning and executing strategies to stabilize and preserve precious PSH assets while balancing production goals.
231 | Reducing Homelessness in High-growth Cities
Last year, Nashville, a community slow to adopt best practices, became a Housing First city and dedicated an unprecedented $50M to reducing homelessness. This session will allow the Nashville team to lay out lessons learned, what others can take from Nashville’s experience, and get advice from attendees.
232 | Opioid Overdose Strategy: Transformative Approaches and Collaborative Solutions
This presentation delves into DESC's comprehensive response to the escalating opioid overdose crisis. In response to a surge in overdoses, DESC mobilized the "Integrated OD Prevention and Response Workgroup," leading to strategic initiatives and subgroups in education, clinical coordination, advocacy, and data collection. Outcomes include standardized processes, expanded services, and improved overdose response. The session explores prioritization adjustments, outcomes, encountered barriers, and the development of an educational toolkit crucial for staff and client success in overdose prevention and response.
233 | Providing Housing Like Where You and I Live: Working Together to Ensure the Rights of People with Psychiatric Disabilities
In 1999 the U.S. Supreme Court held in Olmstead v. L.C. and E.W. that departments of mental health (and other public entities) must provide services, programs and activities in the most integrated and least restrictive settings appropriate to the needs of individuals with disabilities. The case was originally filed in Georgia and has been heralded as the Brown v. Board of Education for the disability community. Since then, the Olmstead decision, and the obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, have been the catalyst for state governments to provide housing and support in the community for thousands of people with disabilities who were once institutionalized in state hospitals, jails, prisons, or who were homeless. This panel will present the legal and mental health system perspectives on Olmstead and describe the collaboration that led to the implementation of the Housing Support Program, an effective statewide-wide initiative that meets the conditions prescribed by Olmstead and significantly improves the quality of life for people with psychiatric disabilities in Georgia.
12:15 PM - 2:15 PM Plenary Lunch | Housing and Health: The Evidence Points to a Home
Research can provide the big picture view of societal patterns that are not evident when working individuals or special populations. What does current research reveal about the impact of large-scale systemic factors on individual homelessness? This panel examines how research can provide meaningful insights when supporting clients, inform our practice, and guide our advocacy.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM 234 | Fidelity Monitoring: Housing First and PSH Quality Improvement Scale
The goals of this session are to: (1) highlight the foundations upon which our Fidelity scale Is based. (2) show important quantitative and qualitative data points that directly impact a providers Housing First/Permanent Supportive Housing programs, and (3) demostrate the importance of a high-quality Housing First approach on a statewide level.
235 | An Emerging Practice: Occupational Therapy's Singular Contribution to Housing First
As Housing First residents age and their needs become increasingly medically complex, they are de facto aging in place. This presentation outlines the remarkable potential for occupational therapy to improve client outcomes and decrease hospital (re)admissions via: (1) assessing and treating individual clients struggling with basic self-care and mobility; (2) facilitating healthful leisure participation and meaningful time use to address depression, isolation, and substance use; and (3) maximizing accessibility of Housing First buildings using principles of Universal Design. Indirect benefits of occupational therapy include decreased staff burnout, improved relations with first responders, and decreased property damage.
236 | Community Integration Endgame: Graduating from Services
In 2020, Pathways to Housing PA graduated our first group of Alumni. Join our discussion as we highlight hurdles overcome, lessons learned, and plans for the future. Case studies will focus on participant choice, housing vouchers, the housing crisis, mental health challenges, and dying with dignity... outside of supportive housing.
237 | Exhausting All Options: The Secret to Maintaining Permanent Housing
Tackling problematic client behaviors is a huge challenge for service providers. Learning to share responsibility for solving problems with clients leads to greater housing stability and fewer evictions. In this session, you will learn the secret of evaluating the risk of problematic behaviors and the tools to create effective solutions.
238 | Discomfort as Opportunity: Pathways Vermont’s Relationship-First Practice
Discomfort is inevitable. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore ways to tolerate and embrace discomfort in their relationships with service recipients, while learning about the values of Pathways Vermont’s Relationship-First Practice: humanity, authenticity, collaboration, humility, curiosity, and hope. Through this practice, service providers vulnerably embrace and investigate their discomfort, deepen their practice of empathy, and build powerful, meaningful connections. This workshop will include an overview of how we implement our Relationship-First Practice across our programs at Pathways Vermont.
239 | At the Intersection of Affordable Housing and Behavioral Health: PSH Services
The research is clear – having an affordable home and purpose supports physical and behavioral health. Join this session to learn about supportive housing service innovations in Washington and Georgia. Georgia will provide a high-level overview of the Georgia Department of Behavioral health and Development Disabilities’ (DBHDD) Georgia Housing Voucher Program (GHVP), the state's partnership with Carelon Behavioral Health, and data reflecting the impact of the program on service utilization and costs. Washington will explore FCS services and Apple Health and Homes – Washington’s newest cross-agency collaboration that pairs FCS supportive housing services with long-term rental assistance.
240 | Housing Heroes: Equitable Staffing for Equitable Solutions
How do you attract and build a resilient and representative workforce to help execute the vision of Housing First programs? We’ll unpack proven strategies for hiring diverse team members, maintaining employee well-being, and ensuring alignment between policies and organizational values. Join us and explore workforce development in the housing sector.
241 | Housing First and the Integration of Housing and Healthcare
Leading a strategic collaborative effort between three nonprofits providing whole-person centered healthcare, workforce development in health and housing services, and providing meaningful housing interventions, NHHA has formed an innovative housing first approach to the integration of healthcare, housing, and workforce development creating an efficacious approach to serving the most vulnerable.
242 | From Unsheltered to Housed: Improving Access and Supporting Families
This session will explore effective ways to support families with children in transitioning from unsheltered situations to housing. We will explore the journey of the Family Shelter Intake Line to improve access and discuss ways in which outreach can be tailored to meet the unique needs of families with children to minimize trauma and promote housing solutions.
243 | Landlord Engagement and Incentive Strategies
This session will discuss how Milwaukee County created a landlord engagement team whose sole focus is landlord retention and recruitment. The presenters will discuss team duties and the strategies they use to build a network of landlords. They will also discuss the creation of new landlord incentives linked to this initiative and how to advocate for funding from local governments to fund similar programs
244 | Film Presentation and Interactive Workshop
We want to inspire more people with lived experience of substance use and mental health to become employed, so that they can contribute from their unique perspective to support and help those who struggle with addiction and mental health, by showing what experiential expertise they possess and what it can contribute. Our training workshops begin with a 3-minute personal story and then a 7-minute film, followed by group interaction. The films offer four different themes: (1) Not giving up, (2) The importance of proper housing, (3) The challenge of helping those who don't want help, and (4) Feeling at home in the community.
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM 245 | Bridging the Gap: Housing First to Housing Choice Voucher
Salem Housing Authority initiated the Homeless Rental Assistance Program (HRAP) in 2017. This was the first, and largest, housing first initiative in our region. Upon the successful completion the of HRAP program, graduates receive a Housing Choice Voucher (Sec 8). We have served over 300 households since 2017.
246 | Improving Quality and Equity in Housing First
Housing First at its core acknowledges the importance of shelter and the impact it has on stabilizing one’s life. We will explain the central tenets that comprise DESC’s housing first approach by exploring various PSH-related topics, such as eligibility, and when it’s appropriate, eviction. As a housing provider to a vulnerable population, it is important to evaluate our practices to ensure equity in the quality of services our clients receive. We will identify measures used to communicate effectiveness of quality: retention rates, improvements to Unit conditions, FCS integration, and improvements to service minutes/support.
247 | Hoarding Disorder: Evidence-based Collaboration and Support for Aging in Place
Are you 'Hoarding Curious'? 'Clutter Collectors' got you down? Hoarding Disorder can be identified in almost every congregate living situation. Diagnosed more in older adults, stigma and isolation make hoarding especially challenging to treat. In partnership with the Seattle Housing Authority, our new and innovative program offers evidence-based interventions, not evictions. We will review the CREST protocol, and our successes and challenges as we walk you through what it’s like to implement a program in a large housing authority. We are 20 months in! Come learn about hoarding, older adults, and what tools might work to address the issue!
248 | Easter’s Home: Housing First in Sacred Spaces
Sacred spaces are emerging sites for housing to address homelessness. The sites offer built-in opportunities for community integration, but also inherent challenges to a housing first philosophy. This panel presentation describes how partners in Charlotte, NC are preparing for Easter’s Home, on-site efficiency apartments for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness.
249 | Understanding Custodial Trauma and its Impact on Housing Clients
For many, contact with the criminal legal system and spending time in custody can be extremely harrowing and stressful, resulting in “custodial trauma.” This session will discuss the unique trauma inherent to incarceration and provide strategies and solutions to help serve this population.
250 | SOAR: Income Support to leverage Housing Opportunities for Diverse Populations
SOAR is a best practices model caseworkers can use to assist applicants with accessing crucial benefits including income support and health insurance. In this presentation we will introduce SOAR and describe how SOAR work can leverage access to housing opportunities for diverse populations experiencing homelessness.
251 | HUD-VASH: Combining Rental Subsidies with Integrated Health Care Services
The Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program serves a broad range of Veterans with an array of supportive service needs. The integration of HUD-VASH into the larger VA healthcare system allows a unique opportunity to connect Veterans to services utilizing Housing First principles and a holistic approach to care.
252 | Participants to Peers: Practices in Supporting Staff with Lived Experience
Hiring, supporting, and retaining peer support staff can be a challenge. This interactive workshop will feature a case study of one PSH program participant's journey to working as a Peer Support Advocate. The presentation will provide best practices in hiring, retaining, and training staff with lived expertise.
253 | Local Government Leadership in Bringing Housing First to Scale
This session will discuss how Milwaukee County, Wisconsin and the City of Greeley, Colorado have led the charge to implement Housing First from a local government perspective. Topics will focus on finding political will, creative funding, and institutional partnerships needed for success.
254 | USICH Listening Session
The USICH is interested in hearing from stakeholders about on All In: The Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness (the Plan), released December 2023. The Plan has been out for over a year, and we are interested in how this resource is helping communities and states work to end homelessness. During this listening session participants will be given the opportunity to share their thoughts perspectives, experiences with, and concerns about the Plan to assist USICH in moving forward over the coming year.
255 | Effective Landlord Engagement Strategies
Housing-focused organizations are forced to spend uncompensated hours recruiting, developing, and maintaining relationships with property managers in their community. While this work is rewarding, it also can be frustrating. These providers are tasked with maintaining a relationship with the tenant and property manager, and often these two stakeholders can have competing interests. This training will provide real-life examples of how to develop best practices in recruiting and maintaining relationships in a housing first model with property managers and tenants.
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Film Showing | BEYOND THE BRIDGE: A Solution To Homelessness
BEYOND THE BRIDGE is an ambitious documentary film about solutions to homelessness. The film team drove over 40,000 miles to visit 12 cities and met with dozens of service providers and policy makers to answer this question: How can our country solve homelessness in a comprehensive way? The film showing is free and open to the public, and will be followed by a conversation with the filmmakers, Don Sawyer and Tim Hasko, Pathways to Housing First Institute founder Dr. Sam Tsemberis, and James Mathy from the Milwaukee County Housing Division.
Learn more about the film here
RSVP here
*please note that by RSVPing to this particular event, you are not registering for the Housing First Partners Conference
Plenary
Workshop
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 201 | Housing's the Solution: Learning from the Hilton Foundation’s S25 Initiative
The Hilton Foundation’s S25 Homelessness Initiative aims to work systemically to prevent and reduce homelessness and eradicate racial disparities by focusing on housing as the solution to homelessness. This presentation explores the early successes and challenges of implementing the Initiative and provides lessons learnings for other communities.
202 | High-fidelity Housing First/Harm Reduction Housing in the Opioid Epidemic
Housing First and Harm Reduction are best practice modalities. The implementation in housing programs is often a “lite” version of them. However, the opioid epidemic requires high-fidelity adherence. This session describes Avivo’s site-based, high-fidelity housing programs and outlines the importance of partnerships between building owners, service providers, the security team, and property management.
203 | Lessons from Canada: Updates on Housing First for Youth research
Housing First for Youth (HF4Y) is an adaptation of Housing First designed to meet the needs of developing adolescents and updates on results of a 48 month RCT. In mobilizing this knowledge, we examine efforts and challenges in taking HF4Y to scale in Canada and Europe.
204 | Addressing Community Encampments with a Hotel to Housing Pilot
This presentation highlights a hotel pilot in Columbus, Ohio where 13 individuals at a community encampment were assisted in relocating to a hotel while outreach, supportive services and community volunteers worked on rehousing. The pilot is complete. The goal now is on program and system improvements based on its success.
205 | What Unhoused Women Want: Findings from LA’s Women’s Needs Assessment
Downtown Women’s Center partnered with Hub for Urban Initiatives and the Urban Institute to conduct the Los Angeles County Women's Needs Assessment. This is the largest needs assessment that exists for unhoused women in the country, and our presentation will share out pivotal findings as well as trauma-informed practice recommendations.
206 | Housing Is Survival: Meaningful Access for People on Criminal Registries
The purpose of this session is to explore the current limitations and systemic barriers faced by people on criminal registries when navigating housing, and to challenge a diversity of stakeholders to envision what housing justice looks like for all instead of for some.
207 | Cracking The Code To Real-time Bed Availability
Founder of GET HELP, Tony Greco, clinical psychologist and recovering addict with extensive lived experience homelessness and Suzanne Williams, an expert on building harmonious homeless and recovery systems, share their experience in cracking the real-time bed availability code, a feat no one has yet been able to accomplish. From the sidewalks of Los Angeles’ Skid Row to the streets and train stations of St. Louis to the corners of Portland’s Pioneer Courthouse Square, through the highways and byways of urban and rural Oklahoma, and all stops in between, Tony and Suzanne sought to understand the unique and dynamic landscapes we navigate as we endeavor to serve those who are unhoused and the unique opportunities in our communities to partner in sharing real-time bed availability and access to services. They will share with you their methodology, a methodology which is critical as we solve complex human problems, a methodology that requires the insights that can only come from lived, human experience as we seek recovery from one of the most challenging problems human civilization has ever faced: homelessness.
208 | Recipe for Success: Tenant Leadership in the Flexible Housing Pool
The Chicago and Cook County Flexible Housing Pool (FHP) is a supportive housing project funded through public/private partnerships between government, managed care, health systems, and philanthropy. FHP goals: reduce crisis system use and increase housing stability. To achieve success, the FHP centers tenant leadership to inform services and program outcomes.
209 | Miracle Friends and Miracle Money in California: A mixed-methods experiment of social support and guaranteed income for people experiencing homelessness
In May of 2022, we began recruitment into a randomized controlled trial to study the impact of Miracle Money (M$), which is a basic income and social support intervention for people experiencing homelessness. Since then, 103 people experiencing homelessness in California have been randomly selected to receive $750 per month for 1 year. This presentation will consider how the 69 people who have received at least 6 monthly payments are doing compared to a control group (n=86) who accessed usual homeless services. The two key findings thus far include that people who received M$ for 6 months are: (1) less likely to be unsheltered as compared to those who accessed usual services; and (2) have fewer unmet basic needs as compared to those who accessed usual services. Self-reported monthly budget allocation of funds and the role of a social support provided by a “phone buddy” as part of the program will be discussed.
210 | Individual Crisis Outreach in PSH
Proactively reaching out to housed clients in crisis is essential for early intervention, trust-building, and preventing isolation. By offering timely support, empowerment, and resources, we enhance stability and program impact while advocating for systemic change. Our dedication strengthens both individual well-being and community resilience.
211 | Transforming Service Delivery Models in PSH
Addressing homelessness requires an approach that addresses the needs of people experiencing homelessness, the causes of homelessness, and behavioral health supports. We will focus on long-term sustainability of Housing First Assertive Community Treatment and Intensive Case Management for unhoused individuals with severe mental illness and/or addiction in permanent supportive housing.
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM 212 | Domestic Violence Housing First
The Domestic Violence Housing First (DVHF) approach focuses on getting survivors into stable housing as quickly as possible, and providing the necessary support as they rebuild their lives. This session will review the primary components of DVHF; impact of flexible funds; benefits of survivor-centered advocacy; and importance of community engagement.
214 | Ecological Perspective in Individual Intervention – Towards a Purpositive Community Integration
Long-term outcomes of community integration of people with homeless experiences require a renovated articulation of the capabilities approach, recovery, and empowerment perspectives generating opportunities for individual expression and critical reflection. The availability of support programs focused on maintaining housing options, participation, employment, and education is crucial for outcome quality.
215 | CoLEAD: An Innovative Model of Justice and Housing
Learn about CoLEAD, an intensive stabilization harm reduction-oriented program of LEAD that entails a best practice approach to outreach and engagement from encampments to temporary lodging to permanent housing. This jail alternative program addresses community safety with a golden thread of stability from shelter through aftercare support in permanent housing.
216 | Optimizing Interdisciplinary Teams within a Housing First Program
The use of community health workers (CHWs) on a Housing First care team is a proven strategy. For individuals with chronic homelessness, physical health conditions can be complex and high risk. Learn how CHWs can efficiently and effectively team with clinical care team members to support participants' holistic needs.
217 | Housing Navigation for Trans Folks through an Affirming Lens
Through incorporating a community-driven, housing-first, and person-centered approach, Trans Housing Coalition's services exemplify how there is still room for expanding best practices for serving a historically underserved community experiencing homelessness. Presenters will also incorporate an experiential learning component to highlight the experiences of the community we serve.
218 | The Importance of Understanding the Root of Indigenous Homelessness
Homelessness began at the initial displacement, oppression, and colonization towards the Indigenous people of Turtle Island (Canada).To effectively support and come alongside our Indigenous people, we need to start at the root of Indigenous homelessness and examine the impacts of residential schools, trauma, systemic racism. Participants will learn best practices, and cultural awareness
219 | The Making of “All In” All-Stars: Stories from the Field
The progress toward ending homelessness lies in an organization’s greatest asset: Staff! This session will dive into the Federal Strategic Plan (“All In”) related to the homeless services workforce and feature strategies with interviewing, engagement, and personnel investments that lead to diverse recruiting and increased retention amidst a competitive market.
220 | Integrating Supportive Services in PSH with Primary and Behavioral Health
This presentation highlights a 35-year collaboration between a homeless service provider and a "federally qualified" health center (FQHC). Our changing approach over the years was designed to measurably improve health among individuals in PSH with recent results published in the American Journal of Public Health. We will discuss what has worked and considerations when replicating.
221 | Aging in Place: Concepts and Interventions in the Housing First Context
“Aging in Place” is often an ill-defined and overused term. This presentation will: (1) explore how best to think about what is means to age in place in PSH, (2) provide an overview of current research, and (3) share examples of emerging interventions for managing and mitigating challenges.
222 | California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness: An Overview
In this workshop, we will present key findings from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness, the largest representative study in the U.S. in 30 years. This groundbreaking study recruited a representative sample of all adults experiencing homelessness in CA. Using surveys and in-depth interviews, we examined who experience homelessness, the precipitants of homelessness, the experiences of homelessness, and the barriers to regaining housing. In this workshop, the study’s principal investigator, the director of community engagement (who led one of the qualitative studies) and two members of the influential Lived Expertise Advisory Board will lead an Interactive discussion of the methods, findings and key recommendations.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 223 | Connecting for Life: Ensuring HF4Y Is Successful
This session focuses on the 5th core principle of Housing First for Youth (HF4Y): Social inclusion & Community Integration. To successfully transition out of homelessness and into adulthood, youth need connections to community, culture, and family & natural/chosen supports. These connections can support youth long after services end and help to prevent adult homelessness.
224 | An Innovative Partnership in Seattle, WA Houses 100+ At-risk Homeless Adults
This presentation focuses on real-life strategies that staff with Harborview Housing First (HHF) used to help stably house over 100 formerly homeless individuals. HHF is a scattered-sites model that leverage significant federal funds through the Shelter Plus Care program. The presenter will highlight participants' strong housing retention rates describe a number of engagement methods guiding HHF's approach, and review several case studies.
225 | Imaginative Design for Congregate PSH Community
In this presentation, we will highlight the innovation of creating a congregate PSH community by remodeling and transforming a church. We will walk through this process by sharing the variety of community partners involved in the planning, the integration into the neighborhood and hear success stories from a resident's perspective.
226 | From State Psychiatric Hospital to Housing First: A Virginia Initiative
Housing First is a safe alternative to adult living facilities, but there are challenges to timely and effective use when discharging people from psychiatric hospitals. A strategic partnership between a rural hospital and community services provider is improving system integration. The project also addresses safety concerns and added capacity to Housing First.
227 | Introducing Charge-Up! Team-based Housing Supports for Young Adults
This session describes a new intervention called Charge Up!, which was co-developed with young adults and rapid rehousing (RRH) case managers to provide support to young adults as they transition into RRH. We share our adaptation process and our successes and challenges as a co-creation team developing Charge Up!
228 | The Finnish Way of Ending Homelessness
The Finnish solution for tackling homelessness is simple. People experiencing homelessness need permanent accommodation and in many cases support. Finland's housing policy has undergone significant shifts, with a prolonged focus on constructing state-subsidized affordable housing. In tandem with this evolution, a pivotal milestone was the adoption of the Finnish Housing First model in 2008, setting Finland apart as a global leader. Unlike many countries, the Housing First model seamlessly integrated into the national homelessness strategy, transcending the status of a mere pilot or project to become a fundamental paradigm guiding all homelessness initiatives. A noteworthy thing of this approach is the transformation of hostels and emergency shelters into permanent housing, exemplifying the commitment to sustainable solutions. The Housing First model, central to this strategy, works in tandem with proactive preventive measures, recognizing the interdependence of the two in the effort to eliminate homelessness. In Finland, the simultaneous development of both components has not only provided secure housing for those who were homeless but has also worked diligently to minimize instances of homelessness from occurring in the first place. The assertion that ending homelessness is not a utopian ideal but a tangible reality in Finland underscores the success of this comprehensive approach. Through a thoughtful combination of housing policies, innovative models, and preventive measures, Finland has demonstrated that homelessness can be effectively addressed and, in the future, ended.
229 | Building Capacity and Supporting Front-line Workers in Homelessness Services
Tenancies won’t be successful without support from front-line workers. It is a challenging job, with special skills in a demanding environment. Traditional education systems do not have programs related to homelessness. In Ottawa, our homelessness service agencies have a central place to receive training and support based on research.
230 | PSH at a Crossroads: Housing First and Thriving People Also Means Sustainable Assets and Stable Organizations
It is important to elevate awareness that the PSH industry is in a “crossroads” moment. There are unique pressures on operating budgets from rising expenses and reduced income, and other challenges as owners work with maturing Coordinated Entry systems to efficiently lease-up buildings and best serve referrals with complex health and housing stability barriers. This session will look more deeply at the recent policy and economic trends that are reshaping PSH design and operations. We will pay attention to some of the unique preservation needs of the earliest PSH properties that were put in service decades ago while highlighting warning signs that affect the future of the entire site-based PSH universe, old and new. We will also spotlight examples across the country where local officials and other critical stakeholders are planning and executing strategies to stabilize and preserve precious PSH assets while balancing production goals.
231 | Reducing Homelessness in High-growth Cities
Last year, Nashville, a community slow to adopt best practices, became a Housing First city and dedicated an unprecedented $50M to reducing homelessness. This session will allow the Nashville team to lay out lessons learned, what others can take from Nashville’s experience, and get advice from attendees.
232 | Opioid Overdose Strategy: Transformative Approaches and Collaborative Solutions
This presentation delves into DESC's comprehensive response to the escalating opioid overdose crisis. In response to a surge in overdoses, DESC mobilized the "Integrated OD Prevention and Response Workgroup," leading to strategic initiatives and subgroups in education, clinical coordination, advocacy, and data collection. Outcomes include standardized processes, expanded services, and improved overdose response. The session explores prioritization adjustments, outcomes, encountered barriers, and the development of an educational toolkit crucial for staff and client success in overdose prevention and response.
233 | Providing Housing Like Where You and I Live: Working Together to Ensure the Rights of People with Psychiatric Disabilities
In 1999 the U.S. Supreme Court held in Olmstead v. L.C. and E.W. that departments of mental health (and other public entities) must provide services, programs and activities in the most integrated and least restrictive settings appropriate to the needs of individuals with disabilities. The case was originally filed in Georgia and has been heralded as the Brown v. Board of Education for the disability community. Since then, the Olmstead decision, and the obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, have been the catalyst for state governments to provide housing and support in the community for thousands of people with disabilities who were once institutionalized in state hospitals, jails, prisons, or who were homeless. This panel will present the legal and mental health system perspectives on Olmstead and describe the collaboration that led to the implementation of the Housing Support Program, an effective statewide-wide initiative that meets the conditions prescribed by Olmstead and significantly improves the quality of life for people with psychiatric disabilities in Georgia.
12:15 PM - 2:15 PM Plenary Lunch | Housing and Health: The Evidence Points to a Home
Research can provide the big picture view of societal patterns that are not evident when working individuals or special populations. What does current research reveal about the impact of large-scale systemic factors on individual homelessness? This panel examines how research can provide meaningful insights when supporting clients, inform our practice, and guide our advocacy.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM 234 | Fidelity Monitoring: Housing First and PSH Quality Improvement Scale
The goals of this session are to: (1) highlight the foundations upon which our Fidelity scale Is based. (2) show important quantitative and qualitative data points that directly impact a providers Housing First/Permanent Supportive Housing programs, and (3) demostrate the importance of a high-quality Housing First approach on a statewide level.
235 | An Emerging Practice: Occupational Therapy's Singular Contribution to Housing First
As Housing First residents age and their needs become increasingly medically complex, they are de facto aging in place. This presentation outlines the remarkable potential for occupational therapy to improve client outcomes and decrease hospital (re)admissions via: (1) assessing and treating individual clients struggling with basic self-care and mobility; (2) facilitating healthful leisure participation and meaningful time use to address depression, isolation, and substance use; and (3) maximizing accessibility of Housing First buildings using principles of Universal Design. Indirect benefits of occupational therapy include decreased staff burnout, improved relations with first responders, and decreased property damage.
236 | Community Integration Endgame: Graduating from Services
In 2020, Pathways to Housing PA graduated our first group of Alumni. Join our discussion as we highlight hurdles overcome, lessons learned, and plans for the future. Case studies will focus on participant choice, housing vouchers, the housing crisis, mental health challenges, and dying with dignity... outside of supportive housing.
237 | Exhausting All Options: The Secret to Maintaining Permanent Housing
Tackling problematic client behaviors is a huge challenge for service providers. Learning to share responsibility for solving problems with clients leads to greater housing stability and fewer evictions. In this session, you will learn the secret of evaluating the risk of problematic behaviors and the tools to create effective solutions.
238 | Discomfort as Opportunity: Pathways Vermont’s Relationship-First Practice
Discomfort is inevitable. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore ways to tolerate and embrace discomfort in their relationships with service recipients, while learning about the values of Pathways Vermont’s Relationship-First Practice: humanity, authenticity, collaboration, humility, curiosity, and hope. Through this practice, service providers vulnerably embrace and investigate their discomfort, deepen their practice of empathy, and build powerful, meaningful connections. This workshop will include an overview of how we implement our Relationship-First Practice across our programs at Pathways Vermont.
239 | At the Intersection of Affordable Housing and Behavioral Health: PSH Services
The research is clear – having an affordable home and purpose supports physical and behavioral health. Join this session to learn about supportive housing service innovations in Washington and Georgia. Georgia will provide a high-level overview of the Georgia Department of Behavioral health and Development Disabilities’ (DBHDD) Georgia Housing Voucher Program (GHVP), the state's partnership with Carelon Behavioral Health, and data reflecting the impact of the program on service utilization and costs. Washington will explore FCS services and Apple Health and Homes – Washington’s newest cross-agency collaboration that pairs FCS supportive housing services with long-term rental assistance.
240 | Housing Heroes: Equitable Staffing for Equitable Solutions
How do you attract and build a resilient and representative workforce to help execute the vision of Housing First programs? We’ll unpack proven strategies for hiring diverse team members, maintaining employee well-being, and ensuring alignment between policies and organizational values. Join us and explore workforce development in the housing sector.
241 | Housing First and the Integration of Housing and Healthcare
Leading a strategic collaborative effort between three nonprofits providing whole-person centered healthcare, workforce development in health and housing services, and providing meaningful housing interventions, NHHA has formed an innovative housing first approach to the integration of healthcare, housing, and workforce development creating an efficacious approach to serving the most vulnerable.
242 | From Unsheltered to Housed: Improving Access and Supporting Families
This session will explore effective ways to support families with children in transitioning from unsheltered situations to housing. We will explore the journey of the Family Shelter Intake Line to improve access and discuss ways in which outreach can be tailored to meet the unique needs of families with children to minimize trauma and promote housing solutions.
243 | Landlord Engagement and Incentive Strategies
This session will discuss how Milwaukee County created a landlord engagement team whose sole focus is landlord retention and recruitment. The presenters will discuss team duties and the strategies they use to build a network of landlords. They will also discuss the creation of new landlord incentives linked to this initiative and how to advocate for funding from local governments to fund similar programs
244 | Film Presentation and Interactive Workshop
We want to inspire more people with lived experience of substance use and mental health to become employed, so that they can contribute from their unique perspective to support and help those who struggle with addiction and mental health, by showing what experiential expertise they possess and what it can contribute. Our training workshops begin with a 3-minute personal story and then a 7-minute film, followed by group interaction. The films offer four different themes: (1) Not giving up, (2) The importance of proper housing, (3) The challenge of helping those who don't want help, and (4) Feeling at home in the community.
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM 245 | Bridging the Gap: Housing First to Housing Choice Voucher
Salem Housing Authority initiated the Homeless Rental Assistance Program (HRAP) in 2017. This was the first, and largest, housing first initiative in our region. Upon the successful completion the of HRAP program, graduates receive a Housing Choice Voucher (Sec 8). We have served over 300 households since 2017.
246 | Improving Quality and Equity in Housing First
Housing First at its core acknowledges the importance of shelter and the impact it has on stabilizing one’s life. We will explain the central tenets that comprise DESC’s housing first approach by exploring various PSH-related topics, such as eligibility, and when it’s appropriate, eviction. As a housing provider to a vulnerable population, it is important to evaluate our practices to ensure equity in the quality of services our clients receive. We will identify measures used to communicate effectiveness of quality: retention rates, improvements to Unit conditions, FCS integration, and improvements to service minutes/support.
247 | Hoarding Disorder: Evidence-based Collaboration and Support for Aging in Place
Are you 'Hoarding Curious'? 'Clutter Collectors' got you down? Hoarding Disorder can be identified in almost every congregate living situation. Diagnosed more in older adults, stigma and isolation make hoarding especially challenging to treat. In partnership with the Seattle Housing Authority, our new and innovative program offers evidence-based interventions, not evictions. We will review the CREST protocol, and our successes and challenges as we walk you through what it’s like to implement a program in a large housing authority. We are 20 months in! Come learn about hoarding, older adults, and what tools might work to address the issue!
248 | Easter’s Home: Housing First in Sacred Spaces
Sacred spaces are emerging sites for housing to address homelessness. The sites offer built-in opportunities for community integration, but also inherent challenges to a housing first philosophy. This panel presentation describes how partners in Charlotte, NC are preparing for Easter’s Home, on-site efficiency apartments for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness.
249 | Understanding Custodial Trauma and its Impact on Housing Clients
For many, contact with the criminal legal system and spending time in custody can be extremely harrowing and stressful, resulting in “custodial trauma.” This session will discuss the unique trauma inherent to incarceration and provide strategies and solutions to help serve this population.
250 | SOAR: Income Support to leverage Housing Opportunities for Diverse Populations
SOAR is a best practices model caseworkers can use to assist applicants with accessing crucial benefits including income support and health insurance. In this presentation we will introduce SOAR and describe how SOAR work can leverage access to housing opportunities for diverse populations experiencing homelessness.
251 | HUD-VASH: Combining Rental Subsidies with Integrated Health Care Services
The Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program serves a broad range of Veterans with an array of supportive service needs. The integration of HUD-VASH into the larger VA healthcare system allows a unique opportunity to connect Veterans to services utilizing Housing First principles and a holistic approach to care.
252 | Participants to Peers: Practices in Supporting Staff with Lived Experience
Hiring, supporting, and retaining peer support staff can be a challenge. This interactive workshop will feature a case study of one PSH program participant's journey to working as a Peer Support Advocate. The presentation will provide best practices in hiring, retaining, and training staff with lived expertise.
253 | Local Government Leadership in Bringing Housing First to Scale
This session will discuss how Milwaukee County, Wisconsin and the City of Greeley, Colorado have led the charge to implement Housing First from a local government perspective. Topics will focus on finding political will, creative funding, and institutional partnerships needed for success.
254 | USICH Listening Session
The USICH is interested in hearing from stakeholders about on All In: The Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness (the Plan), released December 2023. The Plan has been out for over a year, and we are interested in how this resource is helping communities and states work to end homelessness. During this listening session participants will be given the opportunity to share their thoughts perspectives, experiences with, and concerns about the Plan to assist USICH in moving forward over the coming year.
255 | Effective Landlord Engagement Strategies
Housing-focused organizations are forced to spend uncompensated hours recruiting, developing, and maintaining relationships with property managers in their community. While this work is rewarding, it also can be frustrating. These providers are tasked with maintaining a relationship with the tenant and property manager, and often these two stakeholders can have competing interests. This training will provide real-life examples of how to develop best practices in recruiting and maintaining relationships in a housing first model with property managers and tenants.
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Special Event
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Coffee with Sam Tsemberis
This is an open forum, an informal hour, unscripted, where you are welcome to talk about any homelessness related topic; ask questions, make comments or observations, share knowledge and ideas, and enjoy a cup of coffee among other kindred spirits.
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
12:15 PM - 2:15 PM
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Film Showing | BEYOND THE BRIDGE: A Solution To Homelessness
BEYOND THE BRIDGE is an ambitious documentary film about solutions to homelessness. The film team drove over 40,000 miles to visit 12 cities and met with dozens of service providers and policy makers to answer this question: How can our country solve homelessness in a comprehensive way? The film showing is free and open to the public, and will be followed by a conversation with the filmmakers, Don Sawyer and Tim Hasko, Pathways to Housing First Institute founder Dr. Sam Tsemberis, and James Mathy from the Milwaukee County Housing Division.
Learn more about the film here
RSVP here
*please note that by RSVPing to this particular event, you are not registering for the Housing First Partners Conference

Plenary
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
12:15 PM - 2:15 PM Plenary Lunch | Housing and Health: The Evidence Points to a Home
Research can provide the big picture view of societal patterns that are not evident when working individuals or special populations. What does current research reveal about the impact of large-scale systemic factors on individual homelessness? This panel examines how research can provide meaningful insights when supporting clients, inform our practice, and guide our advocacy.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Workshop
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 201 | Housing's the Solution: Learning from the Hilton Foundation’s S25 Initiative
The Hilton Foundation’s S25 Homelessness Initiative aims to work systemically to prevent and reduce homelessness and eradicate racial disparities by focusing on housing as the solution to homelessness. This presentation explores the early successes and challenges of implementing the Initiative and provides lessons learnings for other communities.
202 | High-fidelity Housing First/Harm Reduction Housing in the Opioid Epidemic
Housing First and Harm Reduction are best practice modalities. The implementation in housing programs is often a “lite” version of them. However, the opioid epidemic requires high-fidelity adherence. This session describes Avivo’s site-based, high-fidelity housing programs and outlines the importance of partnerships between building owners, service providers, the security team, and property management.
203 | Lessons from Canada: Updates on Housing First for Youth research
Housing First for Youth (HF4Y) is an adaptation of Housing First designed to meet the needs of developing adolescents and updates on results of a 48 month RCT. In mobilizing this knowledge, we examine efforts and challenges in taking HF4Y to scale in Canada and Europe.
204 | Addressing Community Encampments with a Hotel to Housing Pilot
This presentation highlights a hotel pilot in Columbus, Ohio where 13 individuals at a community encampment were assisted in relocating to a hotel while outreach, supportive services and community volunteers worked on rehousing. The pilot is complete. The goal now is on program and system improvements based on its success.
205 | What Unhoused Women Want: Findings from LA’s Women’s Needs Assessment
Downtown Women’s Center partnered with Hub for Urban Initiatives and the Urban Institute to conduct the Los Angeles County Women's Needs Assessment. This is the largest needs assessment that exists for unhoused women in the country, and our presentation will share out pivotal findings as well as trauma-informed practice recommendations.
206 | Housing Is Survival: Meaningful Access for People on Criminal Registries
The purpose of this session is to explore the current limitations and systemic barriers faced by people on criminal registries when navigating housing, and to challenge a diversity of stakeholders to envision what housing justice looks like for all instead of for some.
207 | Cracking The Code To Real-time Bed Availability
Founder of GET HELP, Tony Greco, clinical psychologist and recovering addict with extensive lived experience homelessness and Suzanne Williams, an expert on building harmonious homeless and recovery systems, share their experience in cracking the real-time bed availability code, a feat no one has yet been able to accomplish. From the sidewalks of Los Angeles’ Skid Row to the streets and train stations of St. Louis to the corners of Portland’s Pioneer Courthouse Square, through the highways and byways of urban and rural Oklahoma, and all stops in between, Tony and Suzanne sought to understand the unique and dynamic landscapes we navigate as we endeavor to serve those who are unhoused and the unique opportunities in our communities to partner in sharing real-time bed availability and access to services. They will share with you their methodology, a methodology which is critical as we solve complex human problems, a methodology that requires the insights that can only come from lived, human experience as we seek recovery from one of the most challenging problems human civilization has ever faced: homelessness.
208 | Recipe for Success: Tenant Leadership in the Flexible Housing Pool
The Chicago and Cook County Flexible Housing Pool (FHP) is a supportive housing project funded through public/private partnerships between government, managed care, health systems, and philanthropy. FHP goals: reduce crisis system use and increase housing stability. To achieve success, the FHP centers tenant leadership to inform services and program outcomes.
209 | Miracle Friends and Miracle Money in California: A mixed-methods experiment of social support and guaranteed income for people experiencing homelessness
In May of 2022, we began recruitment into a randomized controlled trial to study the impact of Miracle Money (M$), which is a basic income and social support intervention for people experiencing homelessness. Since then, 103 people experiencing homelessness in California have been randomly selected to receive $750 per month for 1 year. This presentation will consider how the 69 people who have received at least 6 monthly payments are doing compared to a control group (n=86) who accessed usual homeless services. The two key findings thus far include that people who received M$ for 6 months are: (1) less likely to be unsheltered as compared to those who accessed usual services; and (2) have fewer unmet basic needs as compared to those who accessed usual services. Self-reported monthly budget allocation of funds and the role of a social support provided by a “phone buddy” as part of the program will be discussed.
210 | Individual Crisis Outreach in PSH
Proactively reaching out to housed clients in crisis is essential for early intervention, trust-building, and preventing isolation. By offering timely support, empowerment, and resources, we enhance stability and program impact while advocating for systemic change. Our dedication strengthens both individual well-being and community resilience.
211 | Transforming Service Delivery Models in PSH
Addressing homelessness requires an approach that addresses the needs of people experiencing homelessness, the causes of homelessness, and behavioral health supports. We will focus on long-term sustainability of Housing First Assertive Community Treatment and Intensive Case Management for unhoused individuals with severe mental illness and/or addiction in permanent supportive housing.
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM 212 | Domestic Violence Housing First
The Domestic Violence Housing First (DVHF) approach focuses on getting survivors into stable housing as quickly as possible, and providing the necessary support as they rebuild their lives. This session will review the primary components of DVHF; impact of flexible funds; benefits of survivor-centered advocacy; and importance of community engagement.
214 | Ecological Perspective in Individual Intervention – Towards a Purpositive Community Integration
Long-term outcomes of community integration of people with homeless experiences require a renovated articulation of the capabilities approach, recovery, and empowerment perspectives generating opportunities for individual expression and critical reflection. The availability of support programs focused on maintaining housing options, participation, employment, and education is crucial for outcome quality.
215 | CoLEAD: An Innovative Model of Justice and Housing
Learn about CoLEAD, an intensive stabilization harm reduction-oriented program of LEAD that entails a best practice approach to outreach and engagement from encampments to temporary lodging to permanent housing. This jail alternative program addresses community safety with a golden thread of stability from shelter through aftercare support in permanent housing.
216 | Optimizing Interdisciplinary Teams within a Housing First Program
The use of community health workers (CHWs) on a Housing First care team is a proven strategy. For individuals with chronic homelessness, physical health conditions can be complex and high risk. Learn how CHWs can efficiently and effectively team with clinical care team members to support participants' holistic needs.
217 | Housing Navigation for Trans Folks through an Affirming Lens
Through incorporating a community-driven, housing-first, and person-centered approach, Trans Housing Coalition's services exemplify how there is still room for expanding best practices for serving a historically underserved community experiencing homelessness. Presenters will also incorporate an experiential learning component to highlight the experiences of the community we serve.
218 | The Importance of Understanding the Root of Indigenous Homelessness
Homelessness began at the initial displacement, oppression, and colonization towards the Indigenous people of Turtle Island (Canada).To effectively support and come alongside our Indigenous people, we need to start at the root of Indigenous homelessness and examine the impacts of residential schools, trauma, systemic racism. Participants will learn best practices, and cultural awareness
219 | The Making of “All In” All-Stars: Stories from the Field
The progress toward ending homelessness lies in an organization’s greatest asset: Staff! This session will dive into the Federal Strategic Plan (“All In”) related to the homeless services workforce and feature strategies with interviewing, engagement, and personnel investments that lead to diverse recruiting and increased retention amidst a competitive market.
220 | Integrating Supportive Services in PSH with Primary and Behavioral Health
This presentation highlights a 35-year collaboration between a homeless service provider and a "federally qualified" health center (FQHC). Our changing approach over the years was designed to measurably improve health among individuals in PSH with recent results published in the American Journal of Public Health. We will discuss what has worked and considerations when replicating.
221 | Aging in Place: Concepts and Interventions in the Housing First Context
“Aging in Place” is often an ill-defined and overused term. This presentation will: (1) explore how best to think about what is means to age in place in PSH, (2) provide an overview of current research, and (3) share examples of emerging interventions for managing and mitigating challenges.
222 | California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness: An Overview
In this workshop, we will present key findings from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness, the largest representative study in the U.S. in 30 years. This groundbreaking study recruited a representative sample of all adults experiencing homelessness in CA. Using surveys and in-depth interviews, we examined who experience homelessness, the precipitants of homelessness, the experiences of homelessness, and the barriers to regaining housing. In this workshop, the study’s principal investigator, the director of community engagement (who led one of the qualitative studies) and two members of the influential Lived Expertise Advisory Board will lead an Interactive discussion of the methods, findings and key recommendations.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 223 | Connecting for Life: Ensuring HF4Y Is Successful
This session focuses on the 5th core principle of Housing First for Youth (HF4Y): Social inclusion & Community Integration. To successfully transition out of homelessness and into adulthood, youth need connections to community, culture, and family & natural/chosen supports. These connections can support youth long after services end and help to prevent adult homelessness.
224 | An Innovative Partnership in Seattle, WA Houses 100+ At-risk Homeless Adults
This presentation focuses on real-life strategies that staff with Harborview Housing First (HHF) used to help stably house over 100 formerly homeless individuals. HHF is a scattered-sites model that leverage significant federal funds through the Shelter Plus Care program. The presenter will highlight participants' strong housing retention rates describe a number of engagement methods guiding HHF's approach, and review several case studies.
225 | Imaginative Design for Congregate PSH Community
In this presentation, we will highlight the innovation of creating a congregate PSH community by remodeling and transforming a church. We will walk through this process by sharing the variety of community partners involved in the planning, the integration into the neighborhood and hear success stories from a resident's perspective.
226 | From State Psychiatric Hospital to Housing First: A Virginia Initiative
Housing First is a safe alternative to adult living facilities, but there are challenges to timely and effective use when discharging people from psychiatric hospitals. A strategic partnership between a rural hospital and community services provider is improving system integration. The project also addresses safety concerns and added capacity to Housing First.
227 | Introducing Charge-Up! Team-based Housing Supports for Young Adults
This session describes a new intervention called Charge Up!, which was co-developed with young adults and rapid rehousing (RRH) case managers to provide support to young adults as they transition into RRH. We share our adaptation process and our successes and challenges as a co-creation team developing Charge Up!
228 | The Finnish Way of Ending Homelessness
The Finnish solution for tackling homelessness is simple. People experiencing homelessness need permanent accommodation and in many cases support. Finland's housing policy has undergone significant shifts, with a prolonged focus on constructing state-subsidized affordable housing. In tandem with this evolution, a pivotal milestone was the adoption of the Finnish Housing First model in 2008, setting Finland apart as a global leader. Unlike many countries, the Housing First model seamlessly integrated into the national homelessness strategy, transcending the status of a mere pilot or project to become a fundamental paradigm guiding all homelessness initiatives. A noteworthy thing of this approach is the transformation of hostels and emergency shelters into permanent housing, exemplifying the commitment to sustainable solutions. The Housing First model, central to this strategy, works in tandem with proactive preventive measures, recognizing the interdependence of the two in the effort to eliminate homelessness. In Finland, the simultaneous development of both components has not only provided secure housing for those who were homeless but has also worked diligently to minimize instances of homelessness from occurring in the first place. The assertion that ending homelessness is not a utopian ideal but a tangible reality in Finland underscores the success of this comprehensive approach. Through a thoughtful combination of housing policies, innovative models, and preventive measures, Finland has demonstrated that homelessness can be effectively addressed and, in the future, ended.
229 | Building Capacity and Supporting Front-line Workers in Homelessness Services
Tenancies won’t be successful without support from front-line workers. It is a challenging job, with special skills in a demanding environment. Traditional education systems do not have programs related to homelessness. In Ottawa, our homelessness service agencies have a central place to receive training and support based on research.
230 | PSH at a Crossroads: Housing First and Thriving People Also Means Sustainable Assets and Stable Organizations
It is important to elevate awareness that the PSH industry is in a “crossroads” moment. There are unique pressures on operating budgets from rising expenses and reduced income, and other challenges as owners work with maturing Coordinated Entry systems to efficiently lease-up buildings and best serve referrals with complex health and housing stability barriers. This session will look more deeply at the recent policy and economic trends that are reshaping PSH design and operations. We will pay attention to some of the unique preservation needs of the earliest PSH properties that were put in service decades ago while highlighting warning signs that affect the future of the entire site-based PSH universe, old and new. We will also spotlight examples across the country where local officials and other critical stakeholders are planning and executing strategies to stabilize and preserve precious PSH assets while balancing production goals.
231 | Reducing Homelessness in High-growth Cities
Last year, Nashville, a community slow to adopt best practices, became a Housing First city and dedicated an unprecedented $50M to reducing homelessness. This session will allow the Nashville team to lay out lessons learned, what others can take from Nashville’s experience, and get advice from attendees.
232 | Opioid Overdose Strategy: Transformative Approaches and Collaborative Solutions
This presentation delves into DESC's comprehensive response to the escalating opioid overdose crisis. In response to a surge in overdoses, DESC mobilized the "Integrated OD Prevention and Response Workgroup," leading to strategic initiatives and subgroups in education, clinical coordination, advocacy, and data collection. Outcomes include standardized processes, expanded services, and improved overdose response. The session explores prioritization adjustments, outcomes, encountered barriers, and the development of an educational toolkit crucial for staff and client success in overdose prevention and response.
233 | Providing Housing Like Where You and I Live: Working Together to Ensure the Rights of People with Psychiatric Disabilities
In 1999 the U.S. Supreme Court held in Olmstead v. L.C. and E.W. that departments of mental health (and other public entities) must provide services, programs and activities in the most integrated and least restrictive settings appropriate to the needs of individuals with disabilities. The case was originally filed in Georgia and has been heralded as the Brown v. Board of Education for the disability community. Since then, the Olmstead decision, and the obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, have been the catalyst for state governments to provide housing and support in the community for thousands of people with disabilities who were once institutionalized in state hospitals, jails, prisons, or who were homeless. This panel will present the legal and mental health system perspectives on Olmstead and describe the collaboration that led to the implementation of the Housing Support Program, an effective statewide-wide initiative that meets the conditions prescribed by Olmstead and significantly improves the quality of life for people with psychiatric disabilities in Georgia.
12:15 PM - 2:15 PM
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM 234 | Fidelity Monitoring: Housing First and PSH Quality Improvement Scale
The goals of this session are to: (1) highlight the foundations upon which our Fidelity scale Is based. (2) show important quantitative and qualitative data points that directly impact a providers Housing First/Permanent Supportive Housing programs, and (3) demostrate the importance of a high-quality Housing First approach on a statewide level.
235 | An Emerging Practice: Occupational Therapy's Singular Contribution to Housing First
As Housing First residents age and their needs become increasingly medically complex, they are de facto aging in place. This presentation outlines the remarkable potential for occupational therapy to improve client outcomes and decrease hospital (re)admissions via: (1) assessing and treating individual clients struggling with basic self-care and mobility; (2) facilitating healthful leisure participation and meaningful time use to address depression, isolation, and substance use; and (3) maximizing accessibility of Housing First buildings using principles of Universal Design. Indirect benefits of occupational therapy include decreased staff burnout, improved relations with first responders, and decreased property damage.
236 | Community Integration Endgame: Graduating from Services
In 2020, Pathways to Housing PA graduated our first group of Alumni. Join our discussion as we highlight hurdles overcome, lessons learned, and plans for the future. Case studies will focus on participant choice, housing vouchers, the housing crisis, mental health challenges, and dying with dignity... outside of supportive housing.
237 | Exhausting All Options: The Secret to Maintaining Permanent Housing
Tackling problematic client behaviors is a huge challenge for service providers. Learning to share responsibility for solving problems with clients leads to greater housing stability and fewer evictions. In this session, you will learn the secret of evaluating the risk of problematic behaviors and the tools to create effective solutions.
238 | Discomfort as Opportunity: Pathways Vermont’s Relationship-First Practice
Discomfort is inevitable. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore ways to tolerate and embrace discomfort in their relationships with service recipients, while learning about the values of Pathways Vermont’s Relationship-First Practice: humanity, authenticity, collaboration, humility, curiosity, and hope. Through this practice, service providers vulnerably embrace and investigate their discomfort, deepen their practice of empathy, and build powerful, meaningful connections. This workshop will include an overview of how we implement our Relationship-First Practice across our programs at Pathways Vermont.
239 | At the Intersection of Affordable Housing and Behavioral Health: PSH Services
The research is clear – having an affordable home and purpose supports physical and behavioral health. Join this session to learn about supportive housing service innovations in Washington and Georgia. Georgia will provide a high-level overview of the Georgia Department of Behavioral health and Development Disabilities’ (DBHDD) Georgia Housing Voucher Program (GHVP), the state's partnership with Carelon Behavioral Health, and data reflecting the impact of the program on service utilization and costs. Washington will explore FCS services and Apple Health and Homes – Washington’s newest cross-agency collaboration that pairs FCS supportive housing services with long-term rental assistance.
240 | Housing Heroes: Equitable Staffing for Equitable Solutions
How do you attract and build a resilient and representative workforce to help execute the vision of Housing First programs? We’ll unpack proven strategies for hiring diverse team members, maintaining employee well-being, and ensuring alignment between policies and organizational values. Join us and explore workforce development in the housing sector.
241 | Housing First and the Integration of Housing and Healthcare
Leading a strategic collaborative effort between three nonprofits providing whole-person centered healthcare, workforce development in health and housing services, and providing meaningful housing interventions, NHHA has formed an innovative housing first approach to the integration of healthcare, housing, and workforce development creating an efficacious approach to serving the most vulnerable.
242 | From Unsheltered to Housed: Improving Access and Supporting Families
This session will explore effective ways to support families with children in transitioning from unsheltered situations to housing. We will explore the journey of the Family Shelter Intake Line to improve access and discuss ways in which outreach can be tailored to meet the unique needs of families with children to minimize trauma and promote housing solutions.
243 | Landlord Engagement and Incentive Strategies
This session will discuss how Milwaukee County created a landlord engagement team whose sole focus is landlord retention and recruitment. The presenters will discuss team duties and the strategies they use to build a network of landlords. They will also discuss the creation of new landlord incentives linked to this initiative and how to advocate for funding from local governments to fund similar programs
244 | Film Presentation and Interactive Workshop
We want to inspire more people with lived experience of substance use and mental health to become employed, so that they can contribute from their unique perspective to support and help those who struggle with addiction and mental health, by showing what experiential expertise they possess and what it can contribute. Our training workshops begin with a 3-minute personal story and then a 7-minute film, followed by group interaction. The films offer four different themes: (1) Not giving up, (2) The importance of proper housing, (3) The challenge of helping those who don't want help, and (4) Feeling at home in the community.
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM 245 | Bridging the Gap: Housing First to Housing Choice Voucher
Salem Housing Authority initiated the Homeless Rental Assistance Program (HRAP) in 2017. This was the first, and largest, housing first initiative in our region. Upon the successful completion the of HRAP program, graduates receive a Housing Choice Voucher (Sec 8). We have served over 300 households since 2017.
246 | Improving Quality and Equity in Housing First
Housing First at its core acknowledges the importance of shelter and the impact it has on stabilizing one’s life. We will explain the central tenets that comprise DESC’s housing first approach by exploring various PSH-related topics, such as eligibility, and when it’s appropriate, eviction. As a housing provider to a vulnerable population, it is important to evaluate our practices to ensure equity in the quality of services our clients receive. We will identify measures used to communicate effectiveness of quality: retention rates, improvements to Unit conditions, FCS integration, and improvements to service minutes/support.
247 | Hoarding Disorder: Evidence-based Collaboration and Support for Aging in Place
Are you 'Hoarding Curious'? 'Clutter Collectors' got you down? Hoarding Disorder can be identified in almost every congregate living situation. Diagnosed more in older adults, stigma and isolation make hoarding especially challenging to treat. In partnership with the Seattle Housing Authority, our new and innovative program offers evidence-based interventions, not evictions. We will review the CREST protocol, and our successes and challenges as we walk you through what it’s like to implement a program in a large housing authority. We are 20 months in! Come learn about hoarding, older adults, and what tools might work to address the issue!
248 | Easter’s Home: Housing First in Sacred Spaces
Sacred spaces are emerging sites for housing to address homelessness. The sites offer built-in opportunities for community integration, but also inherent challenges to a housing first philosophy. This panel presentation describes how partners in Charlotte, NC are preparing for Easter’s Home, on-site efficiency apartments for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness.
249 | Understanding Custodial Trauma and its Impact on Housing Clients
For many, contact with the criminal legal system and spending time in custody can be extremely harrowing and stressful, resulting in “custodial trauma.” This session will discuss the unique trauma inherent to incarceration and provide strategies and solutions to help serve this population.
250 | SOAR: Income Support to leverage Housing Opportunities for Diverse Populations
SOAR is a best practices model caseworkers can use to assist applicants with accessing crucial benefits including income support and health insurance. In this presentation we will introduce SOAR and describe how SOAR work can leverage access to housing opportunities for diverse populations experiencing homelessness.
251 | HUD-VASH: Combining Rental Subsidies with Integrated Health Care Services
The Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program serves a broad range of Veterans with an array of supportive service needs. The integration of HUD-VASH into the larger VA healthcare system allows a unique opportunity to connect Veterans to services utilizing Housing First principles and a holistic approach to care.
252 | Participants to Peers: Practices in Supporting Staff with Lived Experience
Hiring, supporting, and retaining peer support staff can be a challenge. This interactive workshop will feature a case study of one PSH program participant's journey to working as a Peer Support Advocate. The presentation will provide best practices in hiring, retaining, and training staff with lived expertise.
253 | Local Government Leadership in Bringing Housing First to Scale
This session will discuss how Milwaukee County, Wisconsin and the City of Greeley, Colorado have led the charge to implement Housing First from a local government perspective. Topics will focus on finding political will, creative funding, and institutional partnerships needed for success.
254 | USICH Listening Session
The USICH is interested in hearing from stakeholders about on All In: The Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness (the Plan), released December 2023. The Plan has been out for over a year, and we are interested in how this resource is helping communities and states work to end homelessness. During this listening session participants will be given the opportunity to share their thoughts perspectives, experiences with, and concerns about the Plan to assist USICH in moving forward over the coming year.
255 | Effective Landlord Engagement Strategies
Housing-focused organizations are forced to spend uncompensated hours recruiting, developing, and maintaining relationships with property managers in their community. While this work is rewarding, it also can be frustrating. These providers are tasked with maintaining a relationship with the tenant and property manager, and often these two stakeholders can have competing interests. This training will provide real-life examples of how to develop best practices in recruiting and maintaining relationships in a housing first model with property managers and tenants.
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Special Event
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Coffee with Sam Tsemberis
This is an open forum, an informal hour, unscripted, where you are welcome to talk about any homelessness related topic; ask questions, make comments or observations, share knowledge and ideas, and enjoy a cup of coffee among other kindred spirits.
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
12:15 PM - 2:15 PM
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Film Showing | BEYOND THE BRIDGE: A Solution To Homelessness
BEYOND THE BRIDGE is an ambitious documentary film about solutions to homelessness. The film team drove over 40,000 miles to visit 12 cities and met with dozens of service providers and policy makers to answer this question: How can our country solve homelessness in a comprehensive way? The film showing is free and open to the public, and will be followed by a conversation with the filmmakers, Don Sawyer and Tim Hasko, Pathways to Housing First Institute founder Dr. Sam Tsemberis, and James Mathy from the Milwaukee County Housing Division.
Learn more about the film here
RSVP here
*please note that by RSVPing to this particular event, you are not registering for the Housing First Partners Conference

Thursday, April 11, 2024

Plenary
Workshop
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 301 | The Evolution of SPNS into Long-Term Housing Programs
AFC Housing Programs has over a decade of experience creating new programs from HOPWA Special Projects of National Significance (SPNS) grants and turning them into long-term housing programs. This workshop will focus on 6 programs that utilize supportive housing focusing on the program clients with a strong community partnership model.
302 | Supportive Housing Transformation in Georgia: Two Years into Implementation
A follow up to the presentation given at the HFPC 2021 conference about Georgia's Housing Voucher Program born out of Olmstead and its recent transformation. Exploring the program's progress, successes, and challenges from two years of the implementation of a statewide Housing Support Program based on the Housing First model.
304 | Exploring Trauma-Informed Design to Support Positive Outcomes in PSH
Trauma-informed design (TID) is the creation of spaces that promote security, agency, connection, and dignity while avoiding retraumatization. In this session, presenters will (1) share their research on TID and the 4-Phase TID Process and (2) deeply explore staff and resident perspectives on TID in a PSH development in Colorado.
305 | Incentivizing Long-acting Injectable Buprenorphine
Long-acting injectable buprenorphine (Sublocade) works as an extended release MOUD. This life-sustaining medication has helped reduce the risk of overdose and reducing the effects of opioids. Due to the withdrawal struggles and divergence of oral MOUD forms, incentivizing Sublocade has helped increase housing stability, healthcare outcomes and reduce overdoses.
306 | Addressing Homelessness Among American Indian/Alaska Native Veterans within VHA
VHA is an active participant in efforts to increase services to AI/AN Veterans including the WHCNAA's Homeless Veteran’s Initiative. This presentation will provide an overview of this collaborative work and summary of the Tribal HUD-VASH program, a demonstration program that offers permanent housing and supportive services to AI/AN homeless Veterans.
307 | It's All About Relationships: Effectively Partnering with Victim Service Providers
The speakers will deliver the results of a Deep South convening of VSPs and CoCs in an interactive workshop that helps participants explore similar topics and identify solutions most likely to work in their community to increase the collaboration between CoCs and VSPs to serve survivors more effectively.
308 | Resident Service Coordinators: The Missing Link in Supportive Housing Retention
The Resident Service Coordinator Program serves as a critical element for housing retention. This is done in two ways: facilitation of community engagement and the “Housing Retention Protocol.” Groups, classes, and events create space for reintegration and personal development. The protocol addresses leasing violations; supporting residents in securing housing stability.
309 | The Intersection of Health/Homelessness: CommonSpirit Health’s Statewide Advisory Council
The panel, comprised primarily of people with lived experience, will share experiences working within a health system. They will highlight how CommonSpirit supported the Council in regards to meaningful engagement, equitable supports, & addressing barriers. CommonSpirit will discuss organizational expectations that needed to shift for REACHI to be successful.
311 | Creating Authentic, Effective Partnerships between Organizations and People with Lived Experiences: Lessons from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness
In this panel, researchers from the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative (BHHI) and members of their Lived Expertise Advisory Board will discuss the work they did together on The California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness (CASPEH). The CASPEH is the largest representative study of homelessness in the United States since the mid-1990s and the largest study ever conducted in the state of California. It was advised by a Lived Expertise Advisory Board (LEAB). The CASPEH LEAB is made up of advisors from across the state of California who represent a range of lived and living experiences of homelessness – from rural and urban communities, living sheltered and unsheltered, young and old, in families and single. In this session, panelists will discuss how this partnership between BHHI and the CASPEH LEAB brought equity, and collaboration to each phase of the CASPEH including research design, fieldwork, data analysis, and dissemination. We will discuss the four pillars to building a circle of trust between organizations and lived experts: (1) compensation, (2) trauma-informed facilitation, (3) taking feedback seriously, and (4) addressing barriers. Finally, they will share tips and tricks from the recently released Toolkit on how they did research together and their advice on forming a Lived Expertise Advisory Board to advise on research projects and programs.
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM 312 | Housing the Unsheltered: Barriers & Supply
Communities are seeing dramatic increases in the number of persons experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The purpose of this session is to highlight community examples of innovative and promising practices in outreach and engagement as well as provide an overview of the Biden-Harris Administration's Housing Supply Action Plan.
313 | Advancing Housing First & Co-occurring Disorders Treatment through Agency-University Partnership
This presentation will discuss how leadership of Wellspring in Louisville, KY, partnered with faculty from University of Louisville’s social work and family science school to implement Housing First principles, Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment (IDDT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support the recovery of chronically unhoused persons experiencing co-occurring disorders (COD).
314 | Trauma-informed Design as an Integral Housing First Principal
Trauma-informed designed housing developments create a dignified, safe, sanctuary the participant may not have known they needed to continue on their healing journey, or even say yes to housing. Trauma-informed design done right can be pivotal in addressing mental health, physical health and substance use barriers synonymously. We will highlight best practices in designing physical space and operational programs for both interim housing and permanent housing structures.
315 | Using Research From Denver’s Supportive Housing Initiative for Advocacy Purposes
The session highlights advocacy and communication efforts that use Denver's Social Impact Bond research evidence to make the case for housing investments. Participants will learn what evidence is most compelling for policymakers and other public audiences and how to effectively weave research evidence into testimony and messages for other audiences.
316 | Cost of Caring: Innovative Trauma-informed Approach for Staff Retention
Addressing the organizational impact of staff exposure to trauma stories while working in the homeless sector. Understanding Vicarious Trauma and Burnout through adaptation of the Trauma Informed(TIC) lens, to deal with stress responses, burnout, and compassion fatigue. Tools are identified to maintain staff retention and improve quality of work environment.
317 | Serving Unmet Veteran Housing Needs: HUD-VASH CCM in King County
King County, WA, utilizes the Collaborative Case Management (CCM) model to help address unmet veteran housing needs by pairing VASH vouchers with non-clinical case management at King County Veterans Program. This session will focus on the successful partnership between the VA, King County, and local PHA's to reduce veteran homelessness.
318 | Improving Health Outcomes for PSH Residents with On-site Medical Partnership
Primary medical care is provided to residents at VHA Housing First PSH properties through Project HOPE, a partnership with Peacehealth, a local hospital system. The session covers the progress of expanded services and successes/challenges of the first eight months, and the development of how success and outcomes are measured.
319 | Residents Creating Housing Retention Through Justice, Equity and Inclusion
In breaking from the norms of practitioners leading initiatives, Homeward Bound partners with residents to create programming that places resident voices and actions at the center of their own housing retention. We will share initiatives on how residents create their own communities and lead housing retention efforts.
320 | From Crisis to Community: Transformative Approaches to End Homelessness
Tūrangawaewae - is a Māori concept that we all have a place to stand, connecting us to land and culture. Te Pokapū is the first New Zealnd indigenous led housing hub where we have partnered with a collective of government agencies, social and health services who have adapted a collective service methodology and cultural framework to increase self-sufficient, interdependent, and vibrant communities by growing and nurturing future leaders. This presentation will focus on how this design has allowed for innovation and new cultural approaches that engage diverse populations, breaking down systematic barriers to medical and behavior health care needs and reconnecting individuals to identity and belonging as an integral pathway to recovery and integration.
321 | Reducing Rules and Improving Shelter and Housing Options for Survivors of Domestic Violence
There are few things more rewarding than watching a survivor reclaim their power. We know that shelters and alternatives to shelters such as transitional housing and rental assistance are critical resources for survivors to find safety and healing for their families. However, we must still ask ourselves, are there ways we can be even more responsive to the needs of survivors and their children? Join us in conversation to discuss the realities of domestic violence shelter and housing, and what best practices we can incorporate into our programs.
322 | My Empowered Voice: A Personal Journey from Homelessness to Advocacy
“What Pathways gave me was a second chance to look at myself as someone who still has value…whose life work is not yet over” Her story is still being written! Everyone, especially people with lived experience of homelessness, is invited to join this interactive session. Lisa will describe her journey from homelessness to turning life’s challenges into purpose as an advocate supporting underrepresented communities and explore how the Housing First model was a catalyst for social activism and inclusion in landmark desegregation action in Yonkers, NY. Lisa will discuss how she combats the current political and social trends seeking the elimination of rights and protections of underserved and disparaged communities.
11:15 AM - 1:30 PM Plenary Lunch | Sustaining the Movement: From Housing First Programs to National Initiatives
Since we know that Housing First solves homelessness, then why are so many people still experiencing homelessness? What must be done to translate effective local programs into national programs? How do we maintain hope in the battle against homelessness? The panel explores effective social policy and social movements and reflects on the question: "where do we go from here?”
Plenary
Workshop
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 301 | The Evolution of SPNS into Long-Term Housing Programs
AFC Housing Programs has over a decade of experience creating new programs from HOPWA Special Projects of National Significance (SPNS) grants and turning them into long-term housing programs. This workshop will focus on 6 programs that utilize supportive housing focusing on the program clients with a strong community partnership model.
302 | Supportive Housing Transformation in Georgia: Two Years into Implementation
A follow up to the presentation given at the HFPC 2021 conference about Georgia's Housing Voucher Program born out of Olmstead and its recent transformation. Exploring the program's progress, successes, and challenges from two years of the implementation of a statewide Housing Support Program based on the Housing First model.
304 | Exploring Trauma-Informed Design to Support Positive Outcomes in PSH
Trauma-informed design (TID) is the creation of spaces that promote security, agency, connection, and dignity while avoiding retraumatization. In this session, presenters will (1) share their research on TID and the 4-Phase TID Process and (2) deeply explore staff and resident perspectives on TID in a PSH development in Colorado.
305 | Incentivizing Long-acting Injectable Buprenorphine
Long-acting injectable buprenorphine (Sublocade) works as an extended release MOUD. This life-sustaining medication has helped reduce the risk of overdose and reducing the effects of opioids. Due to the withdrawal struggles and divergence of oral MOUD forms, incentivizing Sublocade has helped increase housing stability, healthcare outcomes and reduce overdoses.
306 | Addressing Homelessness Among American Indian/Alaska Native Veterans within VHA
VHA is an active participant in efforts to increase services to AI/AN Veterans including the WHCNAA's Homeless Veteran’s Initiative. This presentation will provide an overview of this collaborative work and summary of the Tribal HUD-VASH program, a demonstration program that offers permanent housing and supportive services to AI/AN homeless Veterans.
307 | It's All About Relationships: Effectively Partnering with Victim Service Providers
The speakers will deliver the results of a Deep South convening of VSPs and CoCs in an interactive workshop that helps participants explore similar topics and identify solutions most likely to work in their community to increase the collaboration between CoCs and VSPs to serve survivors more effectively.
308 | Resident Service Coordinators: The Missing Link in Supportive Housing Retention
The Resident Service Coordinator Program serves as a critical element for housing retention. This is done in two ways: facilitation of community engagement and the “Housing Retention Protocol.” Groups, classes, and events create space for reintegration and personal development. The protocol addresses leasing violations; supporting residents in securing housing stability.
309 | The Intersection of Health/Homelessness: CommonSpirit Health’s Statewide Advisory Council
The panel, comprised primarily of people with lived experience, will share experiences working within a health system. They will highlight how CommonSpirit supported the Council in regards to meaningful engagement, equitable supports, & addressing barriers. CommonSpirit will discuss organizational expectations that needed to shift for REACHI to be successful.
311 | Creating Authentic, Effective Partnerships between Organizations and People with Lived Experiences: Lessons from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness
In this panel, researchers from the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative (BHHI) and members of their Lived Expertise Advisory Board will discuss the work they did together on The California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness (CASPEH). The CASPEH is the largest representative study of homelessness in the United States since the mid-1990s and the largest study ever conducted in the state of California. It was advised by a Lived Expertise Advisory Board (LEAB). The CASPEH LEAB is made up of advisors from across the state of California who represent a range of lived and living experiences of homelessness – from rural and urban communities, living sheltered and unsheltered, young and old, in families and single. In this session, panelists will discuss how this partnership between BHHI and the CASPEH LEAB brought equity, and collaboration to each phase of the CASPEH including research design, fieldwork, data analysis, and dissemination. We will discuss the four pillars to building a circle of trust between organizations and lived experts: (1) compensation, (2) trauma-informed facilitation, (3) taking feedback seriously, and (4) addressing barriers. Finally, they will share tips and tricks from the recently released Toolkit on how they did research together and their advice on forming a Lived Expertise Advisory Board to advise on research projects and programs.
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM 312 | Housing the Unsheltered: Barriers & Supply
Communities are seeing dramatic increases in the number of persons experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The purpose of this session is to highlight community examples of innovative and promising practices in outreach and engagement as well as provide an overview of the Biden-Harris Administration's Housing Supply Action Plan.
313 | Advancing Housing First & Co-occurring Disorders Treatment through Agency-University Partnership
This presentation will discuss how leadership of Wellspring in Louisville, KY, partnered with faculty from University of Louisville’s social work and family science school to implement Housing First principles, Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment (IDDT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support the recovery of chronically unhoused persons experiencing co-occurring disorders (COD).
314 | Trauma-informed Design as an Integral Housing First Principal
Trauma-informed designed housing developments create a dignified, safe, sanctuary the participant may not have known they needed to continue on their healing journey, or even say yes to housing. Trauma-informed design done right can be pivotal in addressing mental health, physical health and substance use barriers synonymously. We will highlight best practices in designing physical space and operational programs for both interim housing and permanent housing structures.
315 | Using Research From Denver’s Supportive Housing Initiative for Advocacy Purposes
The session highlights advocacy and communication efforts that use Denver's Social Impact Bond research evidence to make the case for housing investments. Participants will learn what evidence is most compelling for policymakers and other public audiences and how to effectively weave research evidence into testimony and messages for other audiences.
316 | Cost of Caring: Innovative Trauma-informed Approach for Staff Retention
Addressing the organizational impact of staff exposure to trauma stories while working in the homeless sector. Understanding Vicarious Trauma and Burnout through adaptation of the Trauma Informed(TIC) lens, to deal with stress responses, burnout, and compassion fatigue. Tools are identified to maintain staff retention and improve quality of work environment.
317 | Serving Unmet Veteran Housing Needs: HUD-VASH CCM in King County
King County, WA, utilizes the Collaborative Case Management (CCM) model to help address unmet veteran housing needs by pairing VASH vouchers with non-clinical case management at King County Veterans Program. This session will focus on the successful partnership between the VA, King County, and local PHA's to reduce veteran homelessness.
318 | Improving Health Outcomes for PSH Residents with On-site Medical Partnership
Primary medical care is provided to residents at VHA Housing First PSH properties through Project HOPE, a partnership with Peacehealth, a local hospital system. The session covers the progress of expanded services and successes/challenges of the first eight months, and the development of how success and outcomes are measured.
319 | Residents Creating Housing Retention Through Justice, Equity and Inclusion
In breaking from the norms of practitioners leading initiatives, Homeward Bound partners with residents to create programming that places resident voices and actions at the center of their own housing retention. We will share initiatives on how residents create their own communities and lead housing retention efforts.
320 | From Crisis to Community: Transformative Approaches to End Homelessness
Tūrangawaewae - is a Māori concept that we all have a place to stand, connecting us to land and culture. Te Pokapū is the first New Zealnd indigenous led housing hub where we have partnered with a collective of government agencies, social and health services who have adapted a collective service methodology and cultural framework to increase self-sufficient, interdependent, and vibrant communities by growing and nurturing future leaders. This presentation will focus on how this design has allowed for innovation and new cultural approaches that engage diverse populations, breaking down systematic barriers to medical and behavior health care needs and reconnecting individuals to identity and belonging as an integral pathway to recovery and integration.
321 | Reducing Rules and Improving Shelter and Housing Options for Survivors of Domestic Violence
There are few things more rewarding than watching a survivor reclaim their power. We know that shelters and alternatives to shelters such as transitional housing and rental assistance are critical resources for survivors to find safety and healing for their families. However, we must still ask ourselves, are there ways we can be even more responsive to the needs of survivors and their children? Join us in conversation to discuss the realities of domestic violence shelter and housing, and what best practices we can incorporate into our programs.
322 | My Empowered Voice: A Personal Journey from Homelessness to Advocacy
“What Pathways gave me was a second chance to look at myself as someone who still has value…whose life work is not yet over” Her story is still being written! Everyone, especially people with lived experience of homelessness, is invited to join this interactive session. Lisa will describe her journey from homelessness to turning life’s challenges into purpose as an advocate supporting underrepresented communities and explore how the Housing First model was a catalyst for social activism and inclusion in landmark desegregation action in Yonkers, NY. Lisa will discuss how she combats the current political and social trends seeking the elimination of rights and protections of underserved and disparaged communities.
11:15 AM - 1:30 PM Plenary Lunch | Sustaining the Movement: From Housing First Programs to National Initiatives
Since we know that Housing First solves homelessness, then why are so many people still experiencing homelessness? What must be done to translate effective local programs into national programs? How do we maintain hope in the battle against homelessness? The panel explores effective social policy and social movements and reflects on the question: "where do we go from here?”

Plenary
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
11:15 AM - 1:30 PM Plenary Lunch | Sustaining the Movement: From Housing First Programs to National Initiatives
Since we know that Housing First solves homelessness, then why are so many people still experiencing homelessness? What must be done to translate effective local programs into national programs? How do we maintain hope in the battle against homelessness? The panel explores effective social policy and social movements and reflects on the question: "where do we go from here?”

Workshop
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 301 | The Evolution of SPNS into Long-Term Housing Programs
AFC Housing Programs has over a decade of experience creating new programs from HOPWA Special Projects of National Significance (SPNS) grants and turning them into long-term housing programs. This workshop will focus on 6 programs that utilize supportive housing focusing on the program clients with a strong community partnership model.
302 | Supportive Housing Transformation in Georgia: Two Years into Implementation
A follow up to the presentation given at the HFPC 2021 conference about Georgia's Housing Voucher Program born out of Olmstead and its recent transformation. Exploring the program's progress, successes, and challenges from two years of the implementation of a statewide Housing Support Program based on the Housing First model.
304 | Exploring Trauma-Informed Design to Support Positive Outcomes in PSH
Trauma-informed design (TID) is the creation of spaces that promote security, agency, connection, and dignity while avoiding retraumatization. In this session, presenters will (1) share their research on TID and the 4-Phase TID Process and (2) deeply explore staff and resident perspectives on TID in a PSH development in Colorado.
305 | Incentivizing Long-acting Injectable Buprenorphine
Long-acting injectable buprenorphine (Sublocade) works as an extended release MOUD. This life-sustaining medication has helped reduce the risk of overdose and reducing the effects of opioids. Due to the withdrawal struggles and divergence of oral MOUD forms, incentivizing Sublocade has helped increase housing stability, healthcare outcomes and reduce overdoses.
306 | Addressing Homelessness Among American Indian/Alaska Native Veterans within VHA
VHA is an active participant in efforts to increase services to AI/AN Veterans including the WHCNAA's Homeless Veteran’s Initiative. This presentation will provide an overview of this collaborative work and summary of the Tribal HUD-VASH program, a demonstration program that offers permanent housing and supportive services to AI/AN homeless Veterans.
307 | It's All About Relationships: Effectively Partnering with Victim Service Providers
The speakers will deliver the results of a Deep South convening of VSPs and CoCs in an interactive workshop that helps participants explore similar topics and identify solutions most likely to work in their community to increase the collaboration between CoCs and VSPs to serve survivors more effectively.
308 | Resident Service Coordinators: The Missing Link in Supportive Housing Retention
The Resident Service Coordinator Program serves as a critical element for housing retention. This is done in two ways: facilitation of community engagement and the “Housing Retention Protocol.” Groups, classes, and events create space for reintegration and personal development. The protocol addresses leasing violations; supporting residents in securing housing stability.
309 | The Intersection of Health/Homelessness: CommonSpirit Health’s Statewide Advisory Council
The panel, comprised primarily of people with lived experience, will share experiences working within a health system. They will highlight how CommonSpirit supported the Council in regards to meaningful engagement, equitable supports, & addressing barriers. CommonSpirit will discuss organizational expectations that needed to shift for REACHI to be successful.
311 | Creating Authentic, Effective Partnerships between Organizations and People with Lived Experiences: Lessons from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness
In this panel, researchers from the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative (BHHI) and members of their Lived Expertise Advisory Board will discuss the work they did together on The California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness (CASPEH). The CASPEH is the largest representative study of homelessness in the United States since the mid-1990s and the largest study ever conducted in the state of California. It was advised by a Lived Expertise Advisory Board (LEAB). The CASPEH LEAB is made up of advisors from across the state of California who represent a range of lived and living experiences of homelessness – from rural and urban communities, living sheltered and unsheltered, young and old, in families and single. In this session, panelists will discuss how this partnership between BHHI and the CASPEH LEAB brought equity, and collaboration to each phase of the CASPEH including research design, fieldwork, data analysis, and dissemination. We will discuss the four pillars to building a circle of trust between organizations and lived experts: (1) compensation, (2) trauma-informed facilitation, (3) taking feedback seriously, and (4) addressing barriers. Finally, they will share tips and tricks from the recently released Toolkit on how they did research together and their advice on forming a Lived Expertise Advisory Board to advise on research projects and programs.
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM 312 | Housing the Unsheltered: Barriers & Supply
Communities are seeing dramatic increases in the number of persons experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The purpose of this session is to highlight community examples of innovative and promising practices in outreach and engagement as well as provide an overview of the Biden-Harris Administration's Housing Supply Action Plan.
313 | Advancing Housing First & Co-occurring Disorders Treatment through Agency-University Partnership
This presentation will discuss how leadership of Wellspring in Louisville, KY, partnered with faculty from University of Louisville’s social work and family science school to implement Housing First principles, Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment (IDDT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support the recovery of chronically unhoused persons experiencing co-occurring disorders (COD).
314 | Trauma-informed Design as an Integral Housing First Principal
Trauma-informed designed housing developments create a dignified, safe, sanctuary the participant may not have known they needed to continue on their healing journey, or even say yes to housing. Trauma-informed design done right can be pivotal in addressing mental health, physical health and substance use barriers synonymously. We will highlight best practices in designing physical space and operational programs for both interim housing and permanent housing structures.
315 | Using Research From Denver’s Supportive Housing Initiative for Advocacy Purposes
The session highlights advocacy and communication efforts that use Denver's Social Impact Bond research evidence to make the case for housing investments. Participants will learn what evidence is most compelling for policymakers and other public audiences and how to effectively weave research evidence into testimony and messages for other audiences.
316 | Cost of Caring: Innovative Trauma-informed Approach for Staff Retention
Addressing the organizational impact of staff exposure to trauma stories while working in the homeless sector. Understanding Vicarious Trauma and Burnout through adaptation of the Trauma Informed(TIC) lens, to deal with stress responses, burnout, and compassion fatigue. Tools are identified to maintain staff retention and improve quality of work environment.
317 | Serving Unmet Veteran Housing Needs: HUD-VASH CCM in King County
King County, WA, utilizes the Collaborative Case Management (CCM) model to help address unmet veteran housing needs by pairing VASH vouchers with non-clinical case management at King County Veterans Program. This session will focus on the successful partnership between the VA, King County, and local PHA's to reduce veteran homelessness.
318 | Improving Health Outcomes for PSH Residents with On-site Medical Partnership
Primary medical care is provided to residents at VHA Housing First PSH properties through Project HOPE, a partnership with Peacehealth, a local hospital system. The session covers the progress of expanded services and successes/challenges of the first eight months, and the development of how success and outcomes are measured.
319 | Residents Creating Housing Retention Through Justice, Equity and Inclusion
In breaking from the norms of practitioners leading initiatives, Homeward Bound partners with residents to create programming that places resident voices and actions at the center of their own housing retention. We will share initiatives on how residents create their own communities and lead housing retention efforts.
320 | From Crisis to Community: Transformative Approaches to End Homelessness
Tūrangawaewae - is a Māori concept that we all have a place to stand, connecting us to land and culture. Te Pokapū is the first New Zealnd indigenous led housing hub where we have partnered with a collective of government agencies, social and health services who have adapted a collective service methodology and cultural framework to increase self-sufficient, interdependent, and vibrant communities by growing and nurturing future leaders. This presentation will focus on how this design has allowed for innovation and new cultural approaches that engage diverse populations, breaking down systematic barriers to medical and behavior health care needs and reconnecting individuals to identity and belonging as an integral pathway to recovery and integration.
321 | Reducing Rules and Improving Shelter and Housing Options for Survivors of Domestic Violence
There are few things more rewarding than watching a survivor reclaim their power. We know that shelters and alternatives to shelters such as transitional housing and rental assistance are critical resources for survivors to find safety and healing for their families. However, we must still ask ourselves, are there ways we can be even more responsive to the needs of survivors and their children? Join us in conversation to discuss the realities of domestic violence shelter and housing, and what best practices we can incorporate into our programs.
322 | My Empowered Voice: A Personal Journey from Homelessness to Advocacy
“What Pathways gave me was a second chance to look at myself as someone who still has value…whose life work is not yet over” Her story is still being written! Everyone, especially people with lived experience of homelessness, is invited to join this interactive session. Lisa will describe her journey from homelessness to turning life’s challenges into purpose as an advocate supporting underrepresented communities and explore how the Housing First model was a catalyst for social activism and inclusion in landmark desegregation action in Yonkers, NY. Lisa will discuss how she combats the current political and social trends seeking the elimination of rights and protections of underserved and disparaged communities.
11:15 AM - 1:30 PM

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