Designing Solutions for the Eugene Homeless Crisis
Introduction
Several cities across the United States are experiencing overwhelmingly high levels of homelessness. Currently suffering from the nation’s highest rate of homelessness is Eugene Oregon with approximately 3,069 unhoused individuals. There are a multitude of factors contributing to this issue such as mental illness and substance abuse, however, the lack of affordable housing is also largely responsible. Unfortunately, the housed population commonly views the unhoused as an eyesore to the city resulting in the presence of hostile architecture. This is evident throughout the city in different forms making it obvious the unhoused are unwelcome. This paper will explore the not so evident actions being taken against hostile architecture and provide an overview of the kinds of solutions architecture can provide for the unhoused population.
Despite the growing population of the unhoused, the city of Eugene has several initiative programs in place as an effort to help provide housing for the large population living without it. Some of these initiatives include, safe sleep sites, transitional housing communities, permanent supportive housing, and the housing first model. These strategies have been implemented in several city-wide plans to end homelessness and with the support of the community and nonprofit organizations, Eugene has been able to successfully provide more housing options for the unhoused population. These case studies will be explored further in our paper to help show what has been done in Eugene to help support the unhoused community.
The current situation in Eugene, Oregon concerning the unhoused community and related social problems is critical and requires immediate attention. The number of unhoused individuals in the area has continued to increase due to various factors such as high housing costs and a lack of affordable housing options. Additionally, mental health challenges, substance abuse, and traumatic experiences have further complicated the issue. The impact of homelessness goes beyond those affected as it also has negative effects on public health and safety, perpetuates stigmatization and criminalization, and aggravates poverty and income inequality. Therefore, it is crucial to find comprehensive and collaborative solutions to address the underlying causes and provide sustainable support to the unhoused population and the wider community experiencing challenging circumstances.
The matter of homelessness in Eugene, Oregon, is a complex and multifaceted issue that has been influenced by historical events, economic conditions, and government policies. This report presents an analysis of the emergence of homelessness in Eugene, its current state, the challenges faced by individuals without permanent housing, and the potential for resolving this problem. The report emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive and cooperative strategy to effectively address the homelessness issue.
Historical Overview of Homelessness
Industrial Revolution
Although Eugene, Oregon did not exist as a city during the Industrial Revolution from the late 18th to the early 19th century, exploring the impact of this era on the United States can offer valuable insights into the causes and effects of homelessness. Comprehensive research by Todd DePastino’s “Citizen Hobo: How a Century of Homelessness Shaped America” and Kenneth L. Kusmer’s “Down & Out, on the Road: The Homeless in American History” illuminates the intricate connection between industrialization and homelessness, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the historical context.
“Citizen Hobo” by DePastino delves into the origins of homelessness as a social problem during the Industrial Revolution and its subsequent impact on America. The book explores how industrialization and urbanization disrupted traditional social structures, leading to the displacement of workers and the breakdown of established support systems. Rural migrants seeking employment in the growing cities often faced unfavorable working conditions, low wages, and limited access to affordable housing. These economic and social changes contributed to the rise of itinerant populations and homelessness as a prevalent issue. DePastino’s research provides a nuanced understanding of the experiences of homeless individuals during this period, shedding light on their daily struggles, survival tactics, and relationships with wider society. This work helps to extrapolate the historical influences of the Industrial Revolution on homelessness in Eugene, offering insight into the factors that may have contributed to the city’s eventual development of homelessness.
In “Down & Out, on the Road,” Kusmer provides a historical overview of homelessness in America, covering different eras such as the Industrial Revolution. Kusmer explores the challenges faced by workers during this period, including displacement, slum growth, and the difficulties in securing stable housing and employment. He highlights the impact of rapid urbanization and population growth on housing infrastructure, exacerbating the shortage of affordable housing options for workers. Additionally, Kusmer discusses the exploitative labor practices and limited social welfare systems that further contributed to the precarious living conditions experienced by many. Through his research, Kusmer sheds light on the complex social and economic factors that led to homelessness during the Industrial Revolution, providing a broader understanding of Eugene’s experiences within the national context.
The rise and continuation of homelessness during this time were caused by broken social systems, unaffordable housing, unfair labor practices, and insufficient social support networks. Despite Eugene, Oregon not forming a city during the Industrial Revolution, the impact of industrialization still greatly affected the issue in the area.
Urban Renewal/ Expansion
Historically, American cities have undertaken urban renewal and expansion projects to revitalize urban areas. However, these initiatives often resulted in the displacement of marginalized communities. DePastino’s research reveals that urban renewal projects specifically targeted neighborhoods with low-income housing, slums, and informal settlements, deeming them as blighted or undesirable. Consequently, these areas were demolished and replaced with new infrastructure or more expensive housing. This approach directly caused the displacement of individuals and families, who were often left with nowhere to turn.
Through urban renewal and expansion, the cities grew, and the demand for housing increased, leading to rising property values and rent. This phenomenon made it increasingly difficult for low-income individuals and families to find affordable accommodations. Many people and communities are compelled to vacate their homes because of demolition or high expenses, frequently lacking resources and support systems. These processes have a disruptive and destabilizing impact on the lives of the homeless population. The shift in population resulted in the distortion of the original commercial or community network, leading to the destruction of the economic infrastructure. Gentrification, in particular, involved the renovation or redevelopment of neighborhoods, attracting wealthier residents and driving up housing costs. As a consequence, marginalized populations, including those already struggling with homelessness, faced significant challenges in securing stable housing.
The consequences of urban renewal and city expansion include the marginalization of communities, a shortage of affordable housing options, and a deepening cycle of vulnerability and instability. Historically, the poverty population has been neglected in this process and during this time both governments and companies were lacking supportive services for the laborers, workers, or poverty people.
The Great Depression
The impact of the Great Depression on the United States, including Eugene, Oregon, was profound and devastating. From 1929 to the late 1930s, the country faced severe economic turmoil triggered by the stock market crash and the collapse of critical industries. This led to the closure of businesses, a rise in unemployment rates, and widespread poverty, plunging the nation into economic despair. Unfortunately, the people of Eugene, Oregon also suffered from the far-reaching consequences of this crisis, with many families and individuals grappling with unemployment and housing instability. This led to a housing crisis that tragically displaced vulnerable citizens.
The United States faced a myriad of difficulties during the Great Depression, including high unemployment rates, poverty, and social unrest. “Citizen Hobo” by DePastino delves into the history of homelessness during this era. The economic collapse resulted in many losing their jobs, homes, and facing eviction, leaving them homeless or living in poor conditions. These challenges affected various groups, including migrant workers, the unemployed, and marginalized individuals who had to confront them head-on. By utilizing DePastino’s research, we can gain a deeper understanding of the historical framework of the Great Depression and its impact on homelessness in Eugene. This sheds light on the struggles and experiences of the unhoused population in the region during that time.
During The Great Depression, socio-economic factors such as unemployment, poverty, and the housing market collapse contributed to homelessness. Kusmer’s research highlights the experiences of those who were displaced from their homes and forced into itinerant lifestyles. These individuals often traveled in search of work and necessities, with little protection for their labor and no supportive resources available. Living on the street or in industrial areas was often the only way to increase daily job opportunities. Unfortunately, this only worsened the social problem of homelessness in the United States. The overcrowded cities lacked affordable housing, supportive resources, and financial stability, creating an endless loop of homelessness that continues to occur today.
Zoning Laws
The unhoused population in Eugene, Oregon and the wider United States has been greatly affected by zoning laws that have been in place since the early 1900s. These laws were created to regulate land use and promote organized development during a time of urbanization and industrialization. However, the historical background of zoning laws shows that they have inherent biases and unintended outcomes, especially when it comes to the unhoused community.
During the first few decades of the 20th century, zoning laws were commonly utilized to separate land uses and foster financial development. Nevertheless, they were also utilized to discriminate and exclude. Throughout the United States, such as in Eugene, Oregon, zoning rules were utilized to impose racial segregation and uphold socio-economic inequalities. Certain communities were exclusively zoned for single-family homes, preventing low-income individuals and families from obtaining affordable housing in desirable locations.
During the mid-20th century, homelessness was exacerbated by urban renewal projects that aimed to modernize and revitalize cities. Unfortunately, these initiatives often involved removing low-income neighborhoods and displacing vulnerable groups. Zoning regulations were used to support these endeavors by reserving specific areas for commercial development or urban renewal activities, ultimately leading to a scarcity of affordable housing and an increase in homelessness.
Following World War II, there was a rise in suburbanization, which led to stricter zoning laws favoring single-family homes over multi-family homes. Unfortunately, this adversely affected low-income individuals, causing concentrated poverty in specific urban areas. Consequently, the unhoused population faced a shortage of affordable housing options and limited access to shelter. The primary drivers of this issue are exclusionary zoning practices, urban renewal, and suburbanization.
Throughout history, zoning laws have been utilized to enforce racial segregation, preserve socioeconomic disparities, and bar low-income individuals from accessing affordable housing in sought-after regions. This, in conjunction with urban renewal endeavors and suburbanization trends, has resulted in restricted housing options for those without homes, leading to concentrated poverty in certain urban locales. The continued effects of such discriminatory zoning practices underline the urgent necessity for all-inclusive reform and just urban planning approaches that tackle the underlying causes of homelessness and guarantee secure and stable housing for every individual.
Homelessness in Eugene, Oregon
Definition of Homelessness
First, it is critical to understand the full depth of what homelessness means to comprehend the complexity of the issue in Eugene, Oregon. For example, “homeless” and “unhoused” are commonly used umbrella terms when really homelessness can be understood in a multitude of ways encompassing various definitions and categories. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), homelessness refers to individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes people living on the streets, in emergency shelters, transitional housing, or in places not meant for human habitation. The HUD also recognizes the concept of being at the risk of homelessness, which applies to individuals or households who pace imminent eviction, displacement, or lack of resources to maintain stable housing. Furthermore, within the homeless population, there is a distinction between sheltered and unsheltered homelessness. Sheltered homelessness refers to individuals staying in emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, or safe havens. Unsheltered homelessness, on the other hand, concerns those who are residing in locations not intended for habitation, such as cars, parks, abandoned buildings or on the streets. Additionally, chronic homelessness refers to individuals who have experienced long term homelessness, often coupled with a disability or other significant barrier. This term also encapsulates those who have been continuously homeless for more than a year’s time or have experienced at least four episodes of homelessness within the past three years. These various definitions are important when it comes to identifying and addressing the unique needs and individuals who fit into each category (Henry et al.).
Demographics
In order to provide the proper resources necessary and move towards a viable solution to the homelessness crisis in Eugene, Oregon, rather than attempting to make the problem invisible by implementing hostile architecture, it is first important to understand what kinds of people make up the large population of unhoused. The demographics of people experiencing homelessness in Eugene has of course evolved over time due to economic conditions, social policies, and systematic issues as previously mentioned however, the type of people experiencing homelessness stays consistent with individuals struggling with mental health, veterans, individuals with disabilities, racial/ethnic groups, individuals suffering from substance addiction, unaccompanied youth, young adults, and even families with children.
The Lane County Human Services Division conducts an annual one night Homeless Point in Time (PIT) Count on the last Wednesday of January. This count includes a survey of the unsheltered and sheltered homeless populations, as well as a Housing Inventory Count (HIC) of beds and units dedicated to homeless individuals. The PIT Count provides valuable information about homelessness and is used by various organizations and policy makers to address the issue.
The latest full report, before PIT Count methodologies were changed, found a total of 2,165 people experiencing homelessness in Lane County, where Eugene and Springfield are the two largest cities. Of these, 1,633 were unsheltered, 426 were in emergency shelters, and 106 were in transitional housing. The count also revealed an increase in the number of homeless individuals compared to the previous years, with the majority being unsheltered.
The count highlighted several subpopulations, including 197 homeless veterans, 26 unaccompanied homeless youth, and 84 families with children left without shelter. It also revealed that 30.9% of all people counted reported struggling with substance abuse, while 69.1% reported living with a mental illness. Additionally, the count provided insight on chronic homelessness in Lane County with 38% of all homeless individuals being considered chronically homeless.
Dialing in and focusing on the Eugene, Oregon area specifically, the Homeless by Names List (HBNL) reported 3,136 people that were receiving services as of January 2022. This is noteworthy considering the homelessness population of the entire county was significantly less than this only a few years prior. The HBNL data reveals that adult households with children represent 24% of the homelessness population in Eugene, while youth under 25 account for 16% of those receiving homeless services. Furthermore, veterans make up 7% of the homeless population, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color account for 18% of those experiencing homelessness in Eugene. Additionally, 61 unsheltered individuals identified as experiencing and trying to flee domestic violence situations. The remaining population relying on services consist of people with disabilities, unaccompanied youth, and those experiencing severe housing cost burden putting them at a higher risk of homelessness. Without taking responsibility for the current conditions and utilizing architecture to work towards a solution rather than in a hostile way towards the unhoused, the homelessness crisis will only continue to worsen.
Supportive Services
The City of Eugene has been actively engaged in efforts to address and end homelessness through the implementation of supportive services. These initiatives include emergency shelters, temporary shelter programs such as overnight parking, and rest stops for safe sleeping. These efforts reflect the city’s commitment to addressing homelessness and providing temporary relief and support avoiding utilizing strategies related to hostile design.
Emergency shelters have played a crucial role in providing immediate shelter and support for individuals experiencing homelessness in Eugene. Organizations such as St. Vincent de Paul and the Eugene Mission have been at the forefront of operating and managing these shelters, offering beds, meals, and basic amenities to those seeking refuge.
St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County and the Eugene Mission have emerged as key players in the ongoing efforts to end the homeless crisis in Eugene. Both organizations have demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness and have made significant contributions to the community’s initiatives.
St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing housing and supportive services to individuals experiencing homelessness. They have seen much success with their operation of the Eugene Service Station, which includes emergency shelters specific to men, women, and families to offer a safe and secure environment for those seeking immediate shelter. Additionally, their comprehensive range of supportive services, such as case management, employment assistance, and mental health support, encourages individuals to overcome barriers and work towards long term stability. By addressing both the immediate needs and the underlying causes contributing to homelessness, St. Vincent de Paul has been instrumental in making a positive impact (“Supportive Services”, St. Vincent De Paul).
Similarly, the Eugene Mission has played a pivotal role in supporting efforts to end homelessness in Eugene. Founded in 1953, the Eugene Mission has a long standing history of serving the homeless population. Through its emergency shelter program, they have been able to provide individuals in need with a safe place to stay, accompanied by essential resources such as meals, clothing, and restroom and shower facilities. Moreover, the organization also offers additional services and programs to help address the root causes of homelessness. These include case management, referrals, and support for finding stable housing and employment. By taking a comprehensive approach and working collaboratively with other organizations and community volunteers, the Eugene Mission has significantly contributed to the community’s efforts towards ending homelessness (Eugene Mission).
Both of the organizations mentioned above have demonstrated a commitment to holistic solutions and community engagement. Additionally, they have established partnerships, developed prevention programs, and engaged in advocacy to address homelessness comprehensively. Through their collective efforts, these organizations have made a significant impact on the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness and have been crucial in advancing the community’s goal of ending homelessness in Eugene, Oregon.
In addition to support from non-profit organizations, the City of Eugene website gives an overview of the variety of different programs implemented meant to provide shelter for the vast group of people struggling with housing stability. The first of these was the “Dusk to Dawn” initiative, started in 2012 and geared towards offering a safe and supervised place for individuals to sleep during the nighttime hours when other shelters may be either at capacity or even closed. This specific program aims at providing a temporary shelter option for those who need it but are unable to access traditional shelters or perhaps simply prefer not to stay in them. It offers a low barrier approach, meaning individuals are allowed to enter the shelter regardless of their sobriety, mental health conditions, or other factors that may limit their access to conventional shelters. The program also provides basic amenities such as restrooms, showers, and storage for personal belongings.
Dusk to Dawn has since evolved to meet the ever changing needs of the homeless population. In the earlier years, the shelter consisted of only temporary campsites where individuals were able to set up their personal tents, however in recent years, there has been a shift towards more structured and managed sites to offer increased safety and support for participants. The program of course has also expanded its capacity to accommodate the increasing rate of individuals seeking overnight shelter. With time, the program has also advanced to be available year round rather than being limited to the colder months and only operating November through April.
Since this initiative was started, it has played a crucial role in providing a safe and regulated environment where individuals can sleep, rest, and access necessary resources. It offers a supportive setting during the nighttime hours for individuals who would otherwise be sleeping on the streets or in other unsafe conditions leaving themselves particularly vulnerable. By providing a temporary respite and access to basic amenities, the Dusk to Dawn program is an essential component contributing to ending homelessness in Eugene.
Similarly, the Rest Stop initiative was started soon after in 2013 providing additional safe designated spaces for people to seek temporary shelter. This program shares many qualities with the Dusk to Dawn program discussed previously, however it has additional amenities such as trash collection and even shared kitchen facilities. These additional resources suggest that Rest Stops are available and welcome for individuals to stay for a longer period of time compared to a single night through the Dusk to Dawn Program. By offering longer stays, the Eugene Rest Stop program offers individuals experiencing homelessness a sense of stability, security, and community living while they work towards finding a more permanent housing solution.
The issue of camping by the homeless population has been a complex and contentious topic, hence the reason programs like the above are so critical. From a historical perspective, camping laws against the homeless population in Eugene, Oregon can be characterized by a series of policies and ordinances aimed at regulating camping and sleeping in public spaces. These laws have of course evolved over time, reflecting the city’s response to the challenges posed by homelessness and the desire to balance the needs of the community with the rights and well being of individuals experiencing homelessness.
One noteworthy camping law in Eugene was the implementation of the “Camping Ordinance” in 2018. Under this ordinance, camping on any public property, including parks, sidewalks, and other city owned spaces, was prohibited between the hours of 7:00 AM and 9:30 PM. The goal of this ordinance was to address the concerns related to public health, safety, and the use of public spaces.
The enforcement of such camping laws however has faced criticism from advocacy groups and individuals who argue that such measures criminalize homelessness and exacerbate the challenges faced by those without stable housing. Critics also argue that these laws can perpetuate a cycle of displacement and make it even more difficult for individuals experiencing homelessness to access basic necessities and services. Additionally, members of the general community have expressed concerns about the impact of such laws on the homeless population. They argue that punitive measures do not address the underlying causes of homelessness and can further marginalize vulnerable individuals. These concerns are proven true based on the 2019 PIT count for Lane County. Figure 2 graphically shows the amount of people experiencing homelessness, including those who are unsheltered, in emergency shelters, and transitional housing. There is a clear downward trend starting in 2012 when programs like the Dusk to Dawn and Rest Stops were implemented in Eugene, however as a direct result to the new camping ordinance in 2018, there is a large spike in the amount of unsheltered people recorded in 2019.
On the other hand, the implementation of such camping laws has prompted reactions from the general community with some members strongly supporting the laws. They find it necessary for maintaining cleanliness and safety in public spaces. They believe that regulating camping can help protect the rights and interests of the broader community. The issue of camping laws has sparked ongoing discussions and debates within the community. Balancing the concerns of public health, safely, and the rights of individuals both in the community and individuals experiencing homelessness continues to be an ongoing conversation, with efforts focused on finding sustainable and compassionate solutions.
One of these solutions includes implementing Safe Sleep Sites, an initiative started in 2020 as a response to the camping bans and rise in unsheltered homeless population. This program offers supervised locations where individuals can sleep, ensuring their safety and minimizing the risks associated with sleeping on the streets. The Safe Sleep Site program also provides an alternative option for those who may not have access to traditional shelters or prefer a more secure, and community based living environment. These sites are typically managed by nonprofit organizations, such as St. Vincent de Paul and Eugene Mission as previously mentioned, teamed with other community partners. These partnerships have been essential in providing the necessary resources, infrastructure, and support services to ensure the success of these sites.
Safe Sleep sites offer a structured and supervised environment that prioritizes safety, community, and access to basic amenities. They often include designated sleeping areas, shared kitchens, restrooms, and common spaces for residents to interact. Additionally, supportive services such as case management, counseling, and employment assistance are provided to help individuals secure stable housing and regain self-sufficiency. Since its inceptions, the Safe Sleep Site Program has expanded to include multiple locations throughout Eugene, offering a multitude of individuals a safer alternative to sleeping on the streets. It is an integral part to the community’s efforts to address the immediate needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and provide them with a supportive environment.
Transitional Housing
Transitional housing is an additional component critical in addressing the homeless crisis in Eugene; providing individuals and families with a temporary and supportive living environment while they work towards obtaining stable, permanent housing is an important step towards a solution. This form of housing aims to bridge the gap between emergency shelters, such as those previously discussed, and long term housing solutions by offering more structured and comprehensive supportive services.
Programs that fall into the transitional housing category typically provide residents with stable housing for a defined period, usually ranging from a few months up to a couple of years, depending on individual needs and program requirements. During their stay, residents receive case management, counseling, life skills training, employment assistance, and other supportive services that help them address the underlying causes of their homelessness and develop the necessary skills for self sufficiency (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development).
In the context of Eugene, Oregon, transitional housing programs have been implemented by various organizations and agencies to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness. St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County is of course one of many of such organizations as they remain a key player in making efforts to help aid and end the homelessness in Eugene. Programs like these provide a safe and stable environment for individuals to rebuild their lives and work towards securing permanent housing.
Transitional housing has been recognized as an effective intervention in addressing homelessness and facilitating successful outcomes for participants. Studies have shown that individuals who access transitional housing ultimately experience improved housing stability, increased income, and reduced rates of homelessness in the future (Shinn, et al.).
Moreover, these programs contribute to cost savings by reducing the use of emergency shelter services and other costly interventions associated with chronic homelessness (Shinn, et al.). The provision of comprehensive support services in transitional housing settings can help individuals overcome common barriers, such as mental health issues, and substance abuse, leading to positive long term outcomes. Furthermore, programs like this generally have a positive reaction from the general community as they help provide an alternative to homeless individuals sleeping in the street while also maintaining the public health and safety.
It is important, however, to also acknowledge the challenges and limitations of transitional housing. The availability of such housing units are often limited, leading to long waiting lists and insufficient capacity to meet the high demand. Funding constraints and the need for ongoing support services present additional challenges in sustaining transitional housing programs over time. To address these limitations and enhance the effectiveness of transitional housing, efforts have been made to integrate additional approaches, prioritize rapid rehousing strategies, as well as coordinate as much as possible with other homeless service providers. These strategies all aim to minimize the length of stay in transitional housing and expedite the transition to permanent housing solutions (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development).
Overall, transitional housing plays a crucial role in supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness by providing them with a stable and supportive environment to rebuild their lives. By also addressing the underlying cause of their homelessness and equipping participants with the necessary skills, transitional housing programs contribute to long term housing stability and self sufficiency.
Emerald Village Eugene is a notable transitional housing community that has garnered attention for its success in supporting the large population of people experiencing homelessness. This case study highlights the key features and accomplishments of Emerald Village Eugene, showcasing its innovative approach and positive outcomes.
Emerald Village Eugene, also known simply as Emerald Village, is a community based transitional housing project developed by SquareOne Villages, another popular nonprofit organization in Eugene. As outlined on their website, it offers affordable, sustainable, and supportive housing for individuals transitioning out of homelessness. It also supports individuals who are coming out of incarceration and need a chance to get back on their feet. The community consists of a variety of tiny homes seen in figure 3, which are small, self contained dwellings designed to provide privacy and comfort.
One of the primary goals of Emerald Village is to create a supportive environment where residents can regain stability and start to rebuild their lives. The community provides a range of supportive services, including case management, employment assistance, access to healthcare, and life skills training. These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, empowering them to overcome barriers and achieve long term housing stability.
Emerald Village has been recognized for its success in achieving positive outcomes for its residents. According to a report by the University of Oregon, residents of Emerald Village experience significant improvements in housing stability, mental health, and overall well being. The report also highlighted the strong sense of community and mutual support among residents, contributing to a supportive and empowering living environment.
Moreover, Emerald Village has demonstrated the potential of tiny home communities as a cost effective and scalable solution to address homelessness. The relatively low cost of constructing and maintaining tiny homes, combined with the supportive services and resources provided, allows for a sustainable model that can easily be replicated and utilized in other communities.
The success of Emerald Village can be attributed to various factors. Its community based approach fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support among residents, creating a supportive atmosphere for personal growth and development. Additionally, the collaboration between SquareOne Villages, local government, and other community organizations has been instrumental in securing funding, resources, and community support for the project.
All in all, Emerald Village serves as a promising model for transitional housing communities, showcasing the positive impact that supportive, affordable housing can have on individuals experiencing homelessness. Its success highlights the importance of combining housing with comprehensive supportive services to address the underlying cause of homelessness and promote long term stability. Since its implementation, other organizations in Eugene have adopted the same or similar strategies to offer additional transitional housing communities in Eugene, Oregon.
Permanent Supportive Housing
Permanent supportive housing (PSH) has also proven to be an effective approach to addressing chronic homelessness by combining affordable housing with supportive services. This section discusses the key aspects as well as benefits of the permanent supportive housing initiative and how it can be a helpful approach to combat homelessness without utilizing hostile design.
Permanent supportive housing refers to the provision of long term, affordable housing coupled with wraparound services tailored to meet the needs of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness, particularly those with complex challenges such as mental illness, substance use disorders, or even disabilities. The primary goal of permanent supportive housing programs is to provide a stable and supportive living environment that enables individuals to maintain housing stability and improve their overall well being (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development).
Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of permanent supportive housing on individuals and communities. Research has consistently shown that such programs reduce homelessness, decreases emergency room visits, lowers incarceration rates, and improves overall health outcomes (Gilmer, et al.). By providing stable housing and easy access to supportive services, permanent supportive housing solutions address the root causes of homelessness and promotes recovery and self sufficiency.
A notable example of successful permanent supportive housing is the Housing First Model. Housing First prioritizes providing immediate access to stable housing, without imposing any preconditions such as sobriety or compliance with treatment. This approach recognizes that housing stability is a fundamental first step in addressing other challenges faced by individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. Implemented in multiple cities across the United States, Housing First models have demonstrated remarkable success in reducing homelessness and improving quality of life outcomes for participants. A study evaluating this model found that participants in permanent supportive housing experienced significant reductions in homelessness, emergency service utilization, substance use, and psychiatric symptoms.
In addition to the positive outcomes for the individuals participating in the program, permanent supportive housing has also proven to be a cost effective solution. Research has shown that it reduces public spending on emergency services, such as hospitals and jails, as people experiencing chronic homelessness often utilize these services at higher rates than the general population (Basu, et al.).
The implementation of permanent supportive housing requires collaborations between housing providers, healthcare organizations, social services agencies, and local government entities. Additionally, it requires the availability of affordable housing units, funding for support services, and policies that support development and sustainability of such programs.
Overall, permanent supportive housing has emerged as a critical and effective strategy in addressing chronic homelessness. By combining affordable housing with tailored support services, these kinds of programs offer a pathway to stability, improved health outcomes, and long term housing retention for individuals experiencing homelessness.
The Commons on MLK in Eugene, Oregon, is a successful example of permanent supportive housing program that utilizes the Housing First Model. It is a result of a sustained partnership between the community and healthcare stakeholders, aiming to address chronic homelessness with Housing First initiatives and trauma informed design.
This project is part of a strategic housing plan developed by the Housing and Homelessness Board in 2016 to create 600 additional housing opportunities for chronically homeless individuals with particular needs. The commons on MLK aligns with various strategic plans, including the Lane County Poverty and Homelessness Board Strategic Plan, the Community Health Improvement Plan, and the Lane County Strategic Plan.
Partnerships have been key to the success of The Commons on MLK. The Housing is Healthcare Coalition, consisting of organizations such as Lane County, Homes for Good, Sheltercare, PeaceHealth, Trillium Community Health Plan, Kaiser Permanente, and PacificSource, has played a vital role in supporting and funding the project. This is a prime example of the type and amount of community support it takes to make projects like this possible. Furthermore, the project was funded through a variety of sources, including tax credits, federal and local funding, and private grants. The city of Eugene also contributed funds and exempted the project from development charges, while other organizations, including the ones listed above, also provided funding support.
As previously mentioned, The Commons on MLK follows the Housing First initiative, meaning they prioritize a permanent housing solution for people experiencing homelessness and provide in house services and support. It also does a great job of recognizing and addressing peoples basic needs, including the idea that housing and food are essential before attending to other challenges individuals may face.
The complex, shown in figure 4, officially opened in February of 2021 offering 51 units to be filled and an array of supportive services available to tenants. ShelterCare provides support services such as behavioral health support, ongoing case management, assisted rent, peer support, and connections to the community, all of which help tenants stay in housing and achieve self sufficiency. The specific design of The Commons on MLK reflects a trauma informed approach, acknowledging the likelihood of residents having experienced trauma while living on the streets. Design elements include expansive windows, calming colors, private rooms for peer support, and a courtyard with water features all coming together to create a healing environment.
Due to the large population of people experiencing homelessness, placement into the Commons on MLK does not work on a first come first serve basis the same way a typical residence would. Instead, placement into this type of housing is done through referrals from Lane County’s Centralized Waitlist. This is essentially a master list of every individual currently struggling with homelessness based on shelter counts across the city. This list, however, prioritizes placing individuals who are experiencing chronic homelessness as well as those who are high utilizers of the crisis systems. From the city’s point of view, these are the individuals who need stable housing the most. Additionally, just because these individuals are trying to get back on their feet and recover from being homeless does not mean they get to live here at no cost. Rent at the Commons on MLK is income based, ensuring affordability for all tenants. Since many homeless individuals have no income, they receive project based vouchers that allow them to live there, while those with income pay no more than 30% of their total income. Additionally, to qualify for housing, potential tenants must have an income that is 50% or less than that of the average median income in Eugene (Trillium Community Health Plan).
In the few years this project has been opened, it has been deemed quite successful. It effectively highlights the importance of sustained community partnerships, evidence based strategic planning, and the need for ongoing support and services to address homelessness effectively. Furthermore, based on this project’s success, there have since been additional Permanent Supportive Housing projects that utilize the Housing First model built in Eugene, Oregon to continue efforts in ending the homelessness crisis.
Conclusion
The issue of homelessness in Eugene, Oregon is a complex problem influenced by historical events, economic conditions, and government policies. The city’s current state of overwhelmingly high levels of homelessness reflects a lack of affordable housing, alongside factors such as mental illness and substance abuse. Moreover, the presence of hostile architecture further exacerbates the challenges faced by the unhoused population. By understanding the historical context, including the impact of the Industrial Revolution, urban renewal, the Great Depression, and zoning law challenges, we can gain insights into the root causes of homelessness and work towards comprehensive solutions that ensure secure and stable housing for all.
Understanding the complexity of homelessness is crucial to comprehending the issues faced in Eugene. Homelessness encompasses various definitions and categories, including sheltered and unsheltered homelessness, as well as chronic homelessness. Demographically, people experiencing homelessness in Eugene include individuals struggling with mental health, veterans, individuals with disabilities, racial/ethnic groups, individuals suffering from substance addiction, unaccompanied youth, young adults, and even families with children.
The Lane County Homeless Point in Time Count Provides valuable information about homelessness in the area. The latest report indicated an increase in homelessness compared to previous years, with a majority being unsheltered. It also highlighted subpopulations such as homeless veterans, unaccompanied homeless youth, families with children, and individuals struggling with substance abuse or mental illness.
Supportive services play a critical role in addressing the homeless crisis in Eugene. Non-profit organizations like St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County and the Eugene Mission have been instrumental in providing emergency shelters, case management, employment assistance, and mental health support. These organizations work collaboratively with other agencies, community volunteers, and the city of Eugene to offer holistic solutions and advocate for homelessness prevention.
Programs like Dusk to Dawn and Rest Stops provide temporary shelter options for individuals who cannot access traditional shelters. These initiatives prioritize safety, basic amenities, and a low-barrier approach to accommodate individuals with different needs and preferences. Furthermore, the Safe Sleep Site program offers supervised locations where individuals can sleep, ensuring their safety and minimizing risks associated with sleeping on the streets. These sites provide structured environments, supportive services, and community based living to help individuals secure stable housing and regain self-sufficiency.
Transitional housing programs in Eugene aim to bridge the gap between emergency shelters and permanent housing solutions. Organizations like St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County provide stable housing and comprehensive supportive services to help individuals address the underlying causes of their homelessness and develop the necessary skills for self sufficiency. Studies have shown that such transitional housing interventions lead to improved housing stability, increased income, and reduced rates of future homelessness.
Permanent Supportive Housing has also proven to be an effective approach in addressing the homelessness by combining affordable housing with supportive services. Success has been found utilizing the Housing First Model, which prioritizes immediate access to stable housing without preconditions such as sobriety. The availability of affordable housing units, supportive services, and collaborative efforts among housing providers, healthcare organizations, social services agencies, and local government entities are crucial for the implementation of permanent supportive housing. Creating a healing environment to help individuals achieve stability and self sufficiency is key.
In conclusion, addressing homelessness in Eugene, Oregon requires a multifaceted approach that includes understanding the demographics, implementing supportive services, and providing transitional and permanent housing options. By recognizing the unique needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and working together as a community, Eugene can continue to strive towards a viable solution that doesn’t involve hostile architecture to end the homeless crisis.
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