This quasi-experimental study evaluated New Beginnings, a homelessness prevention program designed for parenting youth, implemented within New York City’s Homebase housing program. While Homebase reduces homelessness overall, few programs focus specifically on young parents. New Beginnings used the Critical Time Intervention (CTI) model, which includes three phases of support led by social workers who help connect youth to community services like education, employment, and healthcare.
The study included 314 parenting youth who participated in both New Beginnings and Homebase between May 2017 and June 2021. The evaluation found the program followed the CTI model closely, with features like smaller caseloads and frequent contact, leading to better access to childcare, jobs, healthcare, and higher household income. Compared to similar youth who received only Homebase, those in New Beginnings were less likely to enter shelters in the nine months after completing the program.
These findings suggest that targeted, time-sensitive support can help prevent homelessness among vulnerable young parents.