Lifetime criminal justice involvement is not a barrier to Housing First effectiveness and cost-effectiveness

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Because justice involvement of people experiencing homelessness and mental illness reduces residential stability and increases economic costs, patterns of criminal history may have an impact on the effectiveness and the cost-effectiveness of the Housing First intervention. Method. This study examined whether the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Housing First compared to usual services vary according to these profiles in participants recruited for the multi-site Canadian At Home/Chez Soi randomized controlled trial. Generalized linear models are used to examine the evolution of costs, days in stable housing, and net monetary benefit over two years. Results. The effectiveness or the cost-effectiveness of Housing First do not differ according to these profiles. All people who are experiencing homelessness and mental illness are likely to benefit from Housing First, regardless of criminal history. Discussion. This works provide further support for offering Housing First to all individuals expressing a desire for housing.