In traditional models for addressing homelessness, people are first required to prove that they are “housing ready”, meaning that they can live independently or with minimal support prior to having access to a permanent home.

In Housing First, housing is not the ultimate goal of an effort, but the starting point.

As its name suggests, this model provides housing as quickly as possible, with all the rights and obligations of a typical tenant. Compared to traditional models, housing is provided without imposing strict conditions, such as mandatory abstinence from drugs or alcohol.

Instead, a safety net is created that is designed to keep people in their homes. This means that participants in Housing First programs have a high degree of autonomy and control over the treatment and support they receive, choosing for themselves whether and how to use the available services.

Housing First is currently the most crucial solution worldwide for the permanent elimination of homelessness. In some countries and cities, the model is already fully integrated into their social strategy, while others are just taking their first steps.

At Emfasis Non-Profit, we are working feverishly to make the implementation of this model possible in Greece as well.

How exactly does it work?
The philosophy, the 8 fundamental principles, and the strategy of the model, presented in a brief, informative one-pager.