2023 Target to End Homelessness Unfulfilled, Critics Point to Policy Shortfalls

A recent social media post by prominent homelessness commentator Kevin Dahlgren highlighted the perceived failure to meet a decade-old promise to end homelessness. Dahlgren, known for his "Truth on the Streets" advocacy, stated in a tweet, "I rarely see it and the Homeless rarely see it. I respected his boldness, but enough is not getting done to fulfill this promise." The post refers to a national commitment made years ago that aimed to eradicate homelessness by 2023.

The promise stems from the Obama administration's 2013 initiative, which championed the "Housing First" model as a primary strategy to combat homelessness, with an ambitious goal to end it by 2023. This approach prioritizes providing immediate housing without preconditions, coupled with supportive services. However, as the target year passed, many, including Dahlgren, argue that the reality on the ground reflects a significant shortfall in achieving this objective.

Dahlgren, who has worked in social services for over two decades and frequently documents the struggles of unhoused individuals, contends that current systems often enable rather than empower those experiencing homelessness. "They hate the idea that they're being enabled... What they want is to be empowered. They want responsibility. They want accountability," Dahlgren said in an interview, reflecting the sentiment that the promised solutions have not translated into tangible improvements for many. He advocates for a different approach, emphasizing that if the "Housing First" model isn't working, a new strategy is needed.

The situation is particularly visible in cities like Portland, Oregon, where Dahlgren frequently focuses his efforts. Despite a $3.5 million investment approved by the City Council for a 50-person Navigation Team to connect unhoused individuals with services, the visible presence of homelessness persists. Scott Kerman, Executive Director of Blanchet House, a non-profit providing meals and services in Portland, acknowledged the complexity, noting that while efforts are made, the crisis remains challenging and multifaceted.

The ongoing struggle with homelessness, as articulated by Dahlgren, underscores a significant gap between policy aspirations and practical outcomes. His critique suggests that while the initial promise was bold, the execution and subsequent results have left both advocates and those experiencing homelessness questioning the effectiveness of current strategies and calling for renewed, more effective solutions.