Home Free: An Evolving Journey in Eradicating Elder Homelessness

Abstract

This article describes the values, programs, and strategies of the Committee To End Elder Homelessness in its mission to eradicate homelessness, a growing crisis for older adults in our communities. Through each step of the homeless older adult's journey to finding a home, starting with the outreach to the communities and shelters and culminating in a successful transition to safe permanent housing, this article describes the values, strategies, and structures for creating therapeutic, caring environments that help homeless older adults build new communities for themselves. Current results are reviewed from an exploratory research project that addresses perspectives on the strengths, challenges, and unmet needs of homeless older adults.