November 2023

At Home dives into our latest research and expert insights on housing, communities, and asset building. Enjoy this issue and check out more on our website.

News

Statewide Efforts to Address Homelessness & Comprehensive Housing Supply

Several states are leading new initiatives to better understand patterns of homelessness or to assess their housing supply needs. 

In California, Abt partnered with the Terner Center and UCSF’s Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative to take a closer look at trends in the homeless population. Read more about our collaborative research series, including four new briefs on unaccompanied children and young adults, older adults, families with children and veterans.

In Colorado, we’re working with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs to examine gaps in federal, state, and local investments to limit the rate and length of homelessness. Abt’s analyses will help to inform future policies and strategy efforts across the state.

In Rhode Island, Abt is supporting state leaders who are working to increase affordable housing through a statewide housing plan.

Perspectives

Can Children’s Savings Account Programs Help Black and Latine Students Access College?

A college degree is crucial to building a career and long-term economic stability but Black and Latine students, who may be working to meet family financial needs, typically have fewer resources for college because of the racial wealth gap. A report from Abt and Prosperity Now offers insights on ways Children’s Savings Account programs can reduce barriers.

Resources

Insights from the Supportive Services Housing Model for Older Adults

HUD is examining how assisted housing programs can help more older adults remain in independent housing as they age. The IWISH model tested whether wellness directors and a wellness nurse could help individuals increase the use of primary health care services, reduce the need for emergency department services, and delay moving to long-term care facilities. The Abt team found that IWISH did not show evidence of impacts during the first three years. However, residents ages 62 – 64, and age 85 and older tended to benefit more from the program than people of other ages. Abt is continuing its evaluation of the IWISH model through 2026. 

Project Spotlights

What Works in New York?

Elected officials, government staff, and homeless services in New York City are facing numerous challenges as they seek to establish and expand housing stability. We’re helping them learn more about their communities to answer the question “what could work to help people access—and retain—permanent housing?” Learn how. 

Evaluating HUD’s Community Choice Demonstration

Can services and financial supports help families with federal Housing Choice Vouchers access higher opportunity areas? On behalf of HUD, Abt and partners are evaluating the federal Community Choice Demonstration. Study results will inform future policies to help families access areas that support economic mobility and possibly improve child well-being.

Abt Experts In the News

Our housing, communities, and asset building experts and work in the news:

BUSINESS INSIDER

Universal basic income is working — even in red states – Anna Jefferson quoted

VOX

Some homeless people won’t go to shelters. Should they be left outside? – Nichole Fiore quoted

Social Media Highlight