Forum: ‘Housing First’ needs review after Clare’s Place crisis

Published 1:30 am Saturday, January 6, 2024

By Todd Welch / Herald Forum

The promise of a haven has turned into a bitter reality for the residents of Clare’s Place. This 65-unit supportive housing facility, designed to be a cornerstone of the city’s low-barrier approach to homelessness, was abruptly shut down in October due to extensive drug contamination (“Displaced residents of Clare’s Place still believe in ‘Housing First,’” The Herald, Dec. 29). The displaced residents, many of whom had finally found a shred of stability after years on the streets, are now grappling with the fallout of a system meant to lift them.

Housing First, a national movement prioritizing permanent housing for chronically homeless individuals, has demonstrably reduced homelessness in cities across the country. By removing barriers to entry and providing onsite support services, Housing First offers a lifeline to those trapped in the cycle of homelessness. Yet, the events at Clare’s Place raise critical questions about the model’s implementation and the unintended consequences it can bring.

At the heart of the issue lies the concept of low-barrier housing. This approach minimizes eligibility requirements, aiming to reach those furthest from stable housing. While seemingly humane, it can attract individuals with complex needs, including substance abuse issues, mental health challenges, and criminal backgrounds. This concentration of vulnerabilities can create an environment ripe for the very problems Housing First seeks to alleviate.

The drug contamination at Clare’s Place serves as a stark reminder of this potential downside. Residents, many of whom were ardent believers in Housing First, now express disillusionment and fear. “I thought this was my forever home,” one resident confided, her voice heavy with disbelief. “Now, I’m back on the streets, worried about where my next meal will come from, let alone a safe place to sleep.”

Furthermore, the financial burden of supporting residents with extensive needs can strain resources. Providing additional services like addiction treatment, mental health counseling, and intensive case management adds significant costs to the Housing First equation. The long-term financial sustainability of such an approach, particularly in communities with limited resources, becomes a pressing concern.

The displaced residents of Clare’s Place find themselves caught in a precarious limbo. Their immediate need for safe and secure housing is paramount, yet the path forward remains unclear. Should Clare’s Place be remediated and reopened, or is it time to re-evaluate the low-barrier model in favor of a more targeted approach with stricter eligibility requirements?

Finding the right balance between inclusivity and safety is the challenge at hand. While Housing First remains a vital tool in the fight against homelessness, it cannot be a one-size-fits-all solution. Each community must carefully consider its unique needs and resources before embracing a low-barrier approach. The future of Clare’s Place residents hangs in the balance, and their story serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to refine our strategies and ensure that the pursuit of a roof over someone’s head doesn’t come at the cost of their safety and well-being.

The plight of the Clare’s Place residents underscores the complexity of addressing homelessness. While Housing First holds immense promise, it demands a nuanced approach that acknowledges potential challenges and prioritizes the safety and well-being of all involved. Only through careful consideration and continuous adaptation can we ensure that the dream of a stable home becomes a reality for everyone, not just a select few.

This is not just about finding new homes for the displaced residents of Clare’s Place; it’s about rebuilding trust in a system designed to offer hope. Let us remember their stories, learn from their experiences, and strive toward a future where Housing First truly lives up to its name, providing not just shelter, but a haven where individuals can heal, thrive, and reclaim their lives.

Todd Welch served for eight years on the Lake Stevens City Council and four years on its planning commission. He now lives in Everett.