Preparing for Life After Homelessness: From Homelessness to Transitional Housing

Abstract

Homelessness is a state to recover from, not a problem to fix. Currently in the United States, there are three main strategies provided for aiding the homeless: emergency shelters, permanent housing, and transitional housing. Emergency shelters provide temporary services, however they are often associated with crime, filth, and danger . Permanent housing programs aim to get the homeless of the street and into housing while providing social services, yet places the burden of proof on applicants. Transitional housing however provides temporary living situations and supportive services with an ultimate goal of helping homeless individuals and families prepare to reenter permanent housing, transition to independent living, and become productive members of society.

This thesis focuses on models of transitional and supportive housing, and how through design, the needs of homeless individuals and families are best provided for through services. This thesis explores how locating programs and facilities in the underserved community of Harlem Park Baltimore, MD can integrate two communities that have been isolated and neglected.