09/02/2026
Sharing some stats from CM Mosqueda's newletter about the how effective the Housing First Approach can be!
Health Through Housing Annual Report
https://king-county-tv.cablecast.tv/show/378?site=1
One of the most proven solutions to reducing homelessness has been the County's Health through Housing program. In committee today we received a briefing on the program has been performing. In a moment when the housing first approach is under attack locally and federally, I felt it is important to share several key facts.
Our partners at DESC have highlighted how investments in housing first also lead to increased enrollment in Medicaid – they saw numbers going from 40% to 90% enrollment.
Housing First is an approach our region has led on for decades, long before KCRHA was formed.
High Retention Rates of participants in Housing First programs: Studies cited by the National Alliance to End Homelessness show over 80% of individuals with complex needs remain housed after a year.
88% Reduction in Homelessness among individuals experiencing homelessness: A comprehensive U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) review of 26 separate studies found that utilizing a Housing First approach decreased overall time spent homeless by 88% and increased general housing stability by 41%
Stability Foundation: Research summarized by the National Low Income Housing Coalition confirms that a stable home provides the necessary foundation for personal recovery and accessing further services.
Reduced Costs: Residents spend less time in costly emergency rooms and inpatient hospital care.
55% Drop in Veteran Homelessness: Between 2009 and 2022, the federal government paired Housing First principles with HUD-VASH vouchers, resulting in a 55% reduction in veteran homelessness nationwide
Watch Health, Housing and Human Services Committee 9-1-26
