Analysis of Homelessness and Chronic Homelessness in Texas and Potential Solutions

Abstract

Home to the second largest state in the United States, Texas currently has a population of 700,000 homeless individuals. The increasing rates of homelessness in Texas, especially chronic homelessness, showcases the inadequacy of conventional, short-term solutions which provide temporary financial aid, such as Pathways Home and the Homeless Housing and Services Program. This rise in the number of chronic homelessness is due to prolonged instability in housing, sometimes aggravated by mental illness, substance misuse, or disability. This increase reveals greater social issues, such as housing affordability, economic disparity, and deteriorating social safety nets as primary structural determinants. Using a case study approach, I investigate and compare the effectiveness of a community-oriented housing initiative in Austin called the Community First! Village with traditional policies. My study of the Community First! Village suggests that community support, integrated healthcare, and permanent housing are effective in assisting the chronic homeless population gain housing stability. This signifies that these holistic approaches in dealing with homeless problems must be prioritized in any future policies. These findings illustrate to policymakers the usefulness in shifting towards human-centered, scalable solutions to address the escalating issue of homelessness.