This study is about homelessness and the costs and benefits of providing supportive housing in Metro Halifax. The researchers propose that investing in supportive housing for the homeless in Metro Halifax using a "Housing First" approach, where the supportive housing is permanent, offered immediately, with low entry demands, is cost effective and socially beneficial. Supportive housing in this research is defined as a form of affordable housing with support services attached to help a client perform daily living functions that may not otherwise be possible. The Housing First concept places priority on providing permanent housing immediately with few questions asked. This approach appears to make social and economic sense, where the most vulnerable and costly segment of the homeless population is taken care of first.
Journal