The basis of this comprehensive document is extensive research in seven U.S. cities that demonstrated a commitment and a community-wide approach to reducing chronic street homelessness. It documents effective strategies and measures of effectiveness in a way that will help other communities trying to address this problem.

This report identifies successful community-wide approaches to reducing homelessness and achieving stable housing for the difficult-to-serve people who routinely live on the streets. The authors discuss shifting the goals and approaches of the homeless assistance network toward a new paradigm, which includes establishing a clear goal of reducing chronic street homelessness; committing to a community-wide level of collaboration; having leadership and an effective organizational structure; and committing significant resources from mainstream housing and social service programs that go well beyond homeless-specific funding sources. The report focuses on homeless assistance programs in Birmingham; Boston; Columbus; Los Angeles; Philadelphia; San Diego; and, Seattle. In each city, HUD found local leaders and homeless assistance providers who are fundamentally changing their traditional approaches toward serving those living on their streets. The authors conclude that these seven cities are working toward ending long-term or chronic homelessness and providing the rest of the nation with new approaches to better house and serve their most vulnerable citizens. (Authors)