Dallas, Texas

Executive Summary: Addressing Homelessness in Dallas, Texas

Understanding the Challenge

Effectively addressing homelessness begins with robust and accurate measurements. To design solutions that work, we must first understand the scope of the problem. In Dallas, Texas, this means identifying how many people are homeless, analyzing current metrics, and considering whether new methods of measurement are necessary. A collaborative, transparent, and decentralized approach to data collection and analysis is essential. This includes:

• Partnering with non-profits, local organizations, and government entities to gather accurate data.

• Open-sourcing information to foster collaboration and accountability.

• Building decentralized networks to share resources and strategies across communities.

The Current State of Homelessness in Dallas

• Population Metrics:

  • Approximately 10,000 chronically homeless individuals, with significant undercounting in official data.

  • Demographics:

    • 32% women, 68% men;

    • 9% veterans (~1,000 individuals);

    • 42% aged 50–70.

• Resources:

  • 2,500 beds across six shelters for a population needing 6,750 beds.

  • Many homeless individuals live in urban encampments or wooded areas.

The End Goal

Our end goal is to help our community members find long term housing and provide them with the resources they need to heal, be healthy, happy and flourish.

Identified Needs

1. Increased Capacity:

   • Close the bed shortage by creating additional facilities or temporary housing solutions.

   • Prioritize placing veterans in housing through Department of Defense (DoD) initiatives.

2. Enhanced Resources:

   • Expand access to food, laundry services, showers, hygiene products, and clothing.

   • Build federally funded community centers on allocated land to centralize services and improve access.

3. Community as a Foundation for Healing:

   • The Power of Community: Community nourishes and heals the soul, offering connection, purpose, and support. Most homeless individuals lack meaningful community ties. They often suffer from broken relationships, aloneness, and a sense of isolation.

   • Breaking the Cycle of Substance Abuse: Many individuals learn substance abuse behaviors on the streets. Without strong social networks, they lack the support needed to break free from addiction and avoid relapse.

   • Long-Term Housing Success: To prevent relapses and ensure long-term housing stability, we must radically focus on community building. This includes faith-based initiatives that provide emotional support, mentorship, and a sense of belonging. Faith-based programs have shown a unique ability to foster hope and rebuild lives by addressing both spiritual and physical needs.

4. Housing Villages Outside of Urban Centers:

   • President Trump's proposal to build housing villages outside cities offers a pragmatic solution. Many homeless individuals naturally gravitate toward urban areas where shelters provide essential resources but lack adequate beds. Others retreat to wooded areas where they can rest in peace.

   • Housing villages would offer a safe, centralized location where resources are readily available, and individuals can access services without the challenges of overcrowding in urban shelters. These villages can include modular housing, community centers, and supportive services like healthcare, addiction recovery programs, and job training.

   • By combining resource access with a supportive community environment, housing villages can serve as a bridge from homelessness to stability, creating opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives in a structured and compassionate setting.

Strategic Interventions

1. Improving Measurement and Resource Allocation:

   • Audit and refine metrics, such as point-in-time (PIT) counts, to address underreporting.

   • Develop a robust set of measurements to guide funding and resources.

   • Monitor and audit all non-profits receiving homelessness-related grants to ensure effectiveness and accountability.

2. Innovative Program Offerings:

   • Optimize national voucher programs, including expedited mobile phone services to enhance communication and support access.

   • Foster community healing by addressing emotional and relational isolation.

   • Support detox programs with proven retention strategies (e.g., achieving a 75% retention rate like "Our Calling").

3. Cost and Placement Analysis:

   • Analyze placement costs (~$1,000 per person) to ensure programs are cost-effective and scalable.

4. Engagement and Volunteering:

   • Encourage community involvement through platforms like Our Calling’s volunteer hub.