A Multi-Sector Approach to Moving the Needle on Ending Homelessness

The notion that homelessness in the United States can be ended, rather than managed, represents a fundamental shift in expectations that has occurred over the past three decades. Yet achieving this grand challenge will require a multi-pronged approach that includes interdisciplinary or cross-sector collaboration. This session will consider efforts to address homelessness that have occurred through various sectors including the federal government, the courts, research, and practice. Presenters will include Deborah Padgett who will discuss her new book that traces a fundamental shift from a “treatment first” to “housing first” model that has taken place over the past 2 decades. Philip Mangano, who played a major role in this shift as the executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness under President Bush, will discuss driving public policy through research, innovation, and consumer preference. Thomas Byrne, who works as an Investigator at the National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans, will discuss current VA initiatives to address homelessness. Gary Blasi, who is one of the founding and core faculty members at UCLA’s Program in Public Interest Law and Policy, will discuss using the courts in order to implement best practices to address homelessness.