Principle One: Housing is the foundation for good health – mental and physical.
Research shows that people cannot fully recover from trauma or disability without safe, affordable housing. Home is where we're protected. It is where our health and spirits are restored. Our environment directly impacts our behavior.
Principle Two: Housing vulnerable people requires diverse, community-based collaborations and ongoing support services.
Institutions and service organizations must work together to create housing solutions that include support services centered on maintaining stability. This includes, but is not limited to, behavioral health services, churches, court systems, hospitals, landlords, law enforcement and schools.
Principle Three: Housing is cost-effective; homelessness is not.
In addition to the cost savings to systems of care — behavioral health services, court systems, etc. — an economic benefit comes to local communities and states that subsidize rent to tax-paying landlords. This makes it possible for people to stabilize their lives, return to work, and/or minimize the effects brought on by traumatic events or disabilities.