The campaign to End Homelessness
Ending Homelessness
Reaching Home is the campaign to build the political and civic will to end long-term homelessness in Connecticut through the creation of supportive housing. Supportive housing is permanent, independent and affordable housing combined with on-site or visiting case management and support and employment services.
The Reaching Home Campaign was created in 2004 to create 10,000 units of supportive housing across Connecticut. For individuals and families experiencing long-term, chronic homelessness - and especially those with disabilities- permanent and affordable homes, complete with support services tailored to their individual needs, are the only satisfactory answer.
The Reaching Home Campaign is staffed by the Partnership for Strong Communities.
Hard Work and Effective Organization
Led by a Steering Committee and two subcommittees on Advocacy and Capacity & Investment, the Reaching Home Campaign has brought together experts, advocates and practitioners from government, non-profits and the private sector. Members of the Campaign work closely with the state's Departments of Social Services, Mental Health & Addiction Services, Corrections, Labor, Children & Families, and Developmental Disabilities. Reaching Home includes supportive housing developers, local social service agencies, technical assistance experts, and supportive housing providers and has close ties to the State Interagency Council on Supportive Housing and Homelessness.
Great Success, But More Work Ahead
The Reaching Home Campaign has successfully worked to educate policy-makers and the public about the effectiveness of permanent supportive housing in ending chronic homelessness. Today, there are more than 4,400 units of supportive housing in more than 80 municipalities across Connecticut.
Built in congregate settings in many towns or provided in scattered-site units in neighborhoods throughout the state, permanent supportive housing has been good for residents and for their neighbors. Experienced property managers, social service agencies and case workers ensure that residents receive the services they need. This support structure allows residents to reconnect with family and friends, and have access to school, work or training programs.