About the Heading Home Project

Are We Just Relocating the Homeless?

No. We are housing people who have been homeless. With their active involvement in housing selection, we will provide them the services they need to fulfill a meaningful life.

Is Albuquerque Heading Home a Give-Away?

No. Millions of taxpayer dollars are used annually for people currently caught in the emergency system. We know from the experience of other communities that housing people is far more cost effective. A study is underway in Albuquerque, with results expected in May 2011 that will show the local cost savings.

Shouldn’t Someone Prove That He is Willing to Help Himself Before He Gets Help?

Some people are not capable of helping themselves. Traumatic brain injuries, war injuries suffered while defending our country, mental incapacitation, and behavioral addictions often prevent someone from sticking with a recommended treatment program.

What Kind of Follow-up is There Once Someone is Housed? Where Will the Supportive Services Come From?

Albuquerque Heading Home utilizes permanent supportive housing for people who have been chronically homeless. Initially, the program relies on case management provided by area non-profits. These generous agencies are offering staff to collaborate on supportive services needed by the selected people. The goal is to create a pool of long-term case managers dedicated to Albuquerque Heading Home clients.

Secondly, and just as important, is the role of the wider community. Albuquerque Heading Home will need volunteers interested in helping families and individuals integrate back into society. Training will be provided and clusters of volunteer support teams will work alongside professional case managers to help individuals remain housed and connected to their communities.

How is This Different Than Other Homeless Plans in Albuquerque?

We are actively looking for the most vulnerable people and housing them. Previously, our system assumed our most vulnerable people would come to us. In reality, it turns out that the people we needed to reach the most were least likely to reach us. The significance of that one major difference is huge. The study in Los Angeles proved that for every $1 spent annually to supportively house the "Murrays," the city saw a $5.51 annual savings in utilization of emergency services.

Cost

For 75 units, the total housing cost is $516,075 (at $6,881/household).

• 45 units will be funded by our department's Continuum of Care funds, $309,645.
• 20 units will be funded by the Veteran's Administration, $137,620.
• 10 units will be funded by our department's General Fund, $68,810.