The Politics of Homelessness in the United States

Abstract As the United States grapples with increasing economic inequality and significant poverty, homelessness represents a thorny political and policy issue. This article explores the debates that contrast two primary responses to homelessness, Housing First and the linear, or treatment first, model. Both are employed to address homelessness, though Housing First has been directed almost exclusively to chronic homeless people who are on the streets for long periods of time and contend with mental illness and substance abuse problems. By reviewing the strengths and weaknesses of each type of policy, this article analyzes the philosophy underlying each approach and its impact on homeless people.