Solving Homelessness: Lessons from the American Approach May 8, 2007

Solving Homelessness: Lessons from the American Approach
Presentation by Philip Mangano

Philip F. Mangano is the Executive Director of the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH). Mr. Mangano was appointed by President Bush to lead the Council in March 2002. The Interagency Council is responsible for creating and co-ordinating a federal response to homelessness and for achieving the realization of the President's commitment to end chronic homelessness in the United States in 10 years.

“Housing First” is an approach to ending chronic homelessness that is being implemented successfully in many cities in North America. While program models vary depending upon the population served, all “Housing First” programs share the following elements: A focus on helping people who are homeless access and sustain permanent rental housing as quickly as possible, and A variety of support services following the housing placement that promotes housing stability and individual well-being. While the approach is relatively new, we do have local examples of the Housing First model. Judy Graves from the City of Vancouver's Tenant Assistance Program and Mark Smith from Triage Emergency Service and Care Society will provide the local perspective on “Housing First”.

Sponsored by the GVRD's Greater Vancouver Regional Steering Committee on Homelessness.

Co-hosted by SFU's City Program and Community Education Programs.

Free Admission. As seating is limited, reservations are required: Call 604-291-5100 or e-mail cs_hc@sfu.ca

Official Website: http://www.sfu.ca/city