First developed in the US, the initiative known as Housing First, is being adopted increasingly in Europe. Unlike traditional approaches, it doesn’t require individuals to meet certain criteria before receiving housing assistance. The idea is that homeless individuals have a higher chance of creating a brighter future for themselves if they first have a roof over their heads.

Carlos Martínez Carrasco lived rough for several years before a Housing First initiative provided him with a flat on the outskirts of Madrid.

He told Real Economy that the flat has changed his life in every way: “I no longer lack the things that you do when you’re on the street and I can cook. I don’t have to find a way to wash clothes… I can go out with the peace of mind that I have a place to come back to. I am very happy today.”

  • pearsaltchocolatebar
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    10 months ago

    Most chronically homeless are though. Somewhere around 80% in the US. Although a lot of that is self medication for mental illness.

    • xor@infosec.pub
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      10 months ago

      that is very incorrect…
      p.s. most chronically homeless people don’t ever go to homeless shelters

          • pearsaltchocolatebar
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            10 months ago

            No, a large portion of the chronically homeless are addicts, those with severe mental illness, or both.

            Please note the “chronically” part. I’m not talking about all homeless people.