Scaling Equitable Solutions For Youth Homelessness Prevention in Washington State
Description
This report provides an in-depth analysis of Washington State’s efforts to combat youth and young adult homelessness through the Homelessness Prevention and Diversion Fund (HPDF). Initiated in 2020, the HPDF began as a public-private partnership in four counties, providing $1.5 million in public funding and $50,000 in private contributions biannually. By 2023, the program expanded to ten counties, with public funding increasing to $5 million biannually and an additional $500,000 in private investments. To date, the HPDF has assisted over 1,704 households across both urban and rural communities in Washington.
The HPDF employs a centralized diversion model, emphasizing person-centred and strengths-based approaches. This model enables youth and trained providers to collaboratively develop strategies for securing stable housing outside traditional homeless response systems, often supplemented with one-time financial assistance. The fund’s community-level management ensures broad access and promotes equity through a “no wrong door” approach.
The report also highlights the HPDF’s cost-effectiveness, noting that it costs 78% less than other housing services, averaging less than $2,000 to house a young person within two days. Additionally, 93% of those served remain stably housed, demonstrating the program’s success in providing lasting stability for youth and young adults.
The HPDF employs a centralized diversion model, emphasizing person-centred and strengths-based approaches. This model enables youth and trained providers to collaboratively develop strategies for securing stable housing outside traditional homeless response systems, often supplemented with one-time financial assistance. The fund’s community-level management ensures broad access and promotes equity through a “no wrong door” approach.
The report also highlights the HPDF’s cost-effectiveness, noting that it costs 78% less than other housing services, averaging less than $2,000 to house a young person within two days. Additionally, 93% of those served remain stably housed, demonstrating the program’s success in providing lasting stability for youth and young adults.
Format
pdf
Type
Report
Citation
Pritchett, E., Serantes, K., Harding Chao, L. (2025). Scaling Equitable Solutions For Youth Homelessness Prevention in Washington State. NorthStar Advocates & System Change Partners. https://schultzfamilyfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/HPDF-Report-Final-1-29-25.pdf