System Metrics
Since the Homelessness Prevention System was launched in 2017, we have helped prevent homelessness for thousands of our most vulnerable residents – demonstrating the enormous potential that prevention strategies can have in our efforts to end homelessness in our community.
Researchers at Notre Dame’s Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO) studied the impact of the Homelessness Prevention System and found the first evidence from a randomized control trial suggesting temporary financial assistance decreases homelessness significantly. The study also suggests benefits to the broader community exceed the costs of the program – with $2.47 in benefits gained for every dollar spent on emergency financial assistance. Learn more
The People We Serve
Through the Homelessness Prevention System’s standardized assessment, we have collected insightful data on not only the people we serve, but key risk factors correlated to a serious risk of falling into homelessness:
Top Reasons for Assistance
52%
Income Loss/Reduction
11%
Change in family
composition
10%
Medical
emergency
6%
Must leave current living situation
6%
Unexpected major expense
5%
Fleeing domestic
violence
While the system has helped prevent homelessness for thousands of individuals in our community, the need remains much greater. In 2019, the system only had the financial resources to serve 35% of the eligible households who sought assistance – and we continue to aggressively seek funding to assist even more of our at-risk neighbors.
