Description of service-enriched housing
The provision of resident services has been in existence for generations. But in the mid-nineties, a Shelterforce article was published that introduced a new term to the field: service- enriched housing. This term was meant to fill the gap between affordable developments that did not include any supportive housing, and permanent supportive housing for individuals and families who are at-risk or chronically homeless. This model was designed to “allow residents to identify their own needs and issues of concern, within a housing structure and a community-oriented infrastructure.” Partnering for Change defines service-enriched housing as rental housing for the low-income population at large, not necessarily targeted to those who are at risk or with special needs, but nevertheless able to monitor and support the needs of the more vulnerable residents. More recently, Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF) published a framework for a system of resident services that builds on this goal. Residents are not just consumers, they are key stakeholders in the development, delivery and evaluation of services. These services should be developed within the current ecosystem of available resources, building on assets and filling critical gaps. County Health Rankings and Roadmaps identifies service- enriched housing as an evidence-based strategy that can reduce homelessness, increase housing stability, decrease racial and other disparities, and reduce hospital utilization.
18 Growing Up & Out of Poverty | The NHP Foundation & Enterprise Community Partners
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