Targeted homelessness prevention falls under the umbrella of Problem Solving services at HSH and is an integral component of a robust Homelessness Response System (HRS). Prevention reduces the overall inflow into the HRS, particularly among groups overrepresented in homelessness. Prevention is a critical element to reduce the massive inequities in homelessness, since achieving racial equity in our homelessness response cannot just be considered once people become homeless. HSH is part of a citywide Prevention System to comprehensively prevent homelessness across the City.
Prevention strategies in San Francisco include:
- Flexible financial assistance: one-time payments or longer-term assistance to cover a wide range of potential needs tied to securing or retaining housing for a household at risk of homelessness.
- Engagement and collaboration with partner systems: working with workforce development, schools, affordable housing providers, and other systems to identify people at highest risk of homelessness.
Future programming will include:
- Supportive services: housing arrangement coordination, monitoring, and/or delivery of services that will help with housing stability and homelessness prevention, including financial counseling and developing housing stability plans.
For information about eviction prevention services, please visit the SF Service Guide.
Learn more about the State of California’s emergency back rent program.