Thread by @MKushel

With SF Prop C next week, lots of talk re: concerns
that ppl who are homeless will move to SF to receive services if SF spends more $ on services. As a homelessness
researcher, wanted to add what research (here & elsewhere) says about this
1/9

Worth noting that this is a common concern. bit.ly/2Av8N6N bit.ly/2Gs1dL8 bit.ly/2P6jEvH (I travel country
speaking about homelessness & every city thinks that ppl come from other
cities to them) 2/9

The vast majority of ppl who are homeless have lived there before becoming homeless.
True everywhere, even though myth of movement persists. Some migration, but no clear patterns. 3/9

Good data from US Veterans--- approx. 15% Veterans
move after homelessness—but in and outmigration similar so little to no net change. bit.ly/2PCw2UK @SteveMetraux 4/9

In our #HOPEHOME Study—followed 350 older homeless adults—from Oakland for 5 years. SF has MANY more homeless services than Oakland & short bus ride away. Only 5/350 in SF—most living w family. 1 of these in shelter system, although goes back and forth 5/9

If ppl were to move to SF for services, wouldn’t folks in Oakland move to SF? We didn’t see it. 6/9

Many moved inland (Modesto, Stockton)where housing costs lower. Few services there—move
disrupted family support, lost healthcare, left their churches & community. They are not receiving support for
housing, but moved to find housing they could afford. This is common 7/9

When I asked in focus groups of homeless ppl whether would
move for services, answer:  NO.  THIS IS OUR HOME.  When we make decisions about policies, let’s
make them on facts, not fears.   8/9

The solution to homelessness is housing. 20 years of strong data to show that
#HousingFirst works. Facts, not fear. ourcityourhomesf.org 9/end