Indianapolis program finds permanent housing success

A local program to find permanent housing for people experiencing homelessness is having success. The Housing to Recovery Fund program kicked off in 2018 and was able to help 120 families last year.

The program is a partnership between the city of Indianapolis, Horizon House, CICF, and others. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the milestone comes during difficult times.

“They have been extraordinarily difficult on our most vulnerable residents,” Hogsett said.

Of the people who have found housing through the program, 96 percent have stayed housed.

Horizon House, the city’s largest day shelter, provides supportive services to people experiencing homelessness, including housing navigation. This program has expanded efforts to find affordable options, help pay rent, find employment and connect with mental health care.

The program has helped reduce jail and ER visits in this population, including those who have experienced chronic homelessness.

READ MORE: Here's what the city, nonprofits and individuals are doing to end homelessness in Indianapolis

While not housed yet, Kevin Hampton has been able to work with case management at Horizon House.

“Trying to get back established with employment and housing, everything takes an amount of time and patience,” Hampton said.

The fund has a $10 million investment goal.

Horizon House Executive Director Teresa Wessel said the Housing to Recovery Fund allows flexibility with solutions.

“Not only are our neighbors still stably housed, but some of them are really thriving,” Wessel said.

The city of Indianapolis is using American Rescue Plan funding to expand affordable housing options.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @JillASheridan.