The future of men’s supportive housing
We worked with Blue Door to develop a transitional housing program for men experiencing episodic and chronic homelessness.
Client
Blue Door
Roles
Qualitative and Quantitative Research
Rapid Literature Review
Survey
Reporting
Deliverables
Report with Recommendations
About the Project
We undertook a mixed-methods approach using both qualitative and quantitative research methods to answer the evaluation questions. We reviewed previous consultative work, conducted a rapid literature review, and distributed three surveys—one to Blue Door staff, one to current clients of Blue Door and one to former clients. Qualitative interviews were also conducted with current and former Blue Door clients.
What We Did
Survey respondents explained that access to adequate and safe housing in York Region for men experiencing homelessness is limited due to the lack of affordable housing in the region. Additionally, major barriers to accessing services included availability of financial resources and supports, existing mental health or substance use challenges, physical limitations, and racial and disability discrimination from landlords.
To ensure Blue Door’s new supportive housing program responds to the needs of clients, we asked participants questions about services and policies that should be embedded in the new program. Participants emphasized the new program should include services that recognize and respond to mental health and substance use challenges, and help clients address past traumas.
“The study completed by Hub Solutions on the future of men’s supportive housing in York Region, has provided Blue Door with critical information to better meet the needs of men experiencing homelessness in York Region, both in our present-day work, and as well as we plan into the future. Having good information is so impactful in making real change happen as we work to prevent and end homelessness in York Region.” - Michael B., CEO, Blue Door
Results
We developed 21 recommendations based on the evaluation. Blue Door now has the information needed to design their new transitional housing program with supports that are strengths-based, client-centred and use a harm reduction approach. Importantly, these recommendations will guide the design of Blue Door’s new housing program to better meet the needs of men experiencing homelessness in York Region.
