Lucas County’s Housing First Initiative
NO BARRIERS HOUSING is about thinking differently when it comes to chronic homelessness in Lucas County. Based on the national Housing First model, the program prioritizes housing as the first step in ending homelessness. It’s a fresh way of thinking that’s financially responsible and socially-good, with proven success in cities throughout the nation.
Why No Barriers Housing Works
When housing comes first, you not only establish a foundation, you install a sense of pride. You deliver hope — and hope is what changes lives.
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Builds a foundation on a network of support.
Housing comes first. Rapid access to housing is followed by support services from our Toledo area partners.
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Creates partnerships throughout the community.
We’re stronger together. No Barriers Housing builds on Toledo’s existing social services and becomes the hub for homelessness support.
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Encourages a self-led path to restabilization.
There’s no predetermined path. Individuals in the program have full autonomy over how they participate and choose to use the program’s resources.
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What we do
We help chronically homeless individuals by utilizing the national Housing First model of providing access to housing with no barriers. We grant individuals autonomy in their choices and provide opportunity for recovery, support, and community. Additionally, we leverage and connect our local resources to aid and sustain that mission.
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Why we do it
Housing is a right, not a privilege. Access to a home directly impacts recovery and builds a stronger, more stable community. Recognizing this means taking ownership of our community’s challenges while committing to facing them. Establishing a foundation for growth begins with providing the keys.
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Sustainable Solution
Starting with a home is proven, in Housing First programs across the country, to be a critical step in ending chronic homelessness. Security and shelter is the most basic human need. With a solid foundation first, individuals can focus on restabilization and gain the ability to more effectively leverage the existing network of support available in Lucas County.
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Cost Savings
Many chronically homeless individuals use existing social services, yet they cycle through the system and remain unhoused. No Barriers Housing holds potential to more efficiently connect existing resources, reduce overall expenses, and create a permanent housing solution.
$23,000 LESS
Per consumer per year than a shelter program
$31,545 SAVINGS
On emergency services for every housed person*
75%-90%
Of participants remain housed after one year
134 INDIVIDUALS
Estimated to be chronically homeless in Lucas County
Savings statistics reflect average national results for the Housing First model and indicate the program’s potential in Lucas County.
*Average cost savings over the course of two years.
Let's partner to end chronic homelessness in Lucas county!
With your support, we can further the mission of No Barriers Housing in Lucas County. Contact the Toledo Lucas County Homelessness Board by completing the form below.