Housing Problem-Solving: An Introduction

Description: Housing problem-solving (HPS) is a person-centered, housing-focused approach to quickly resolve housing crises by exploring creative, safe, and cost-effective alternatives to literal homelessness. It is a set of foundational techniques to be used with all participants which are not contingent upon the standardized assessment, screening, eligibility, or prioritization used for other permanent housing resources. By helping participants tap into their existing strengths and support networks, HPS can often achieve successful returns to housing without ongoing rental assistance or other financial assistance. This training introduces the model itself as well as the rationale and the skills required to effectively resolve someone’s housing crisis creatively. Presenters: The SMAC Housing Problem Solving Leads Team received training on HPS when SMAC did a year-long Technical Assistance engagement on improving Coordinated Entry processes and outcomes. They represent 8 different agencies in 5 suburban counties, serving youth, singles, and families. They recorded this training for their own CoC, but the content is applicable to anyone wanting to explore this approach.