Homelessness is a serious issue caused by poverty, unemployment, mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and lack of affordable housing. It negatively affects physical and mental health, quality of life, and public safety. Southern Nevada has one of the highest rates of homelessness in the US, with 5,530 homeless people on a single night in 2020. Most were unsheltered, and many had chronic homelessness. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation by increasing infection risk and disrupting services.

Our Effective Core And Supportive Services program for homeless people is based on the Housing First Model but adds more features to improve the quality and sustainability of housing outcomes. ECASS aims to help homeless people find stable homes and access the necessary resources and support to rebuild their lives and achieve their full potential. It also aims to build resilience and community among homeless people by enhancing their capacity to cope with and recover from adverse situations, improving their well-being and functioning, and increasing their social integration and participation. 

The program has three main components: 

1. Permanent Supportive Housing: affordable, accessible, comfortable, and eco-friendly modular housing units.

2. Community Integration Program: opportunities for social and community engagement, health promotion, skill development, income generation, and food security through peer support specialists, healthcare clinics, vocational training programs, business incubations, and community gardens.

3. Supportive Services: address each client’s specific needs and goals through case management, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, legal assistance, and other services.