Frequently Asked Questions

Is it realistic to think chronic homelessness can be ended?
Absolutely. Utah’s 10-year plan is more than a wish list, or call-to-action. It’s a living document based on methodically tested principles and hard results. Utah is now home to two apartment complexes for the homeless. More are slated for construction in 2009. Utah has seen a 15 percent decline in the chronically homeless population since implementation of the 10-year plan.

Won’t some homeless individuals refuse to come inside?
There are some who reject offers of housing, but experience shows they are few in number. We’ll declare victory only after offering a home, and other supports, to each and every chronically homeless Utahn. This will require building or rehabilitating an additional 1,800 housing units.

How much will the 10-year plan cost, and who pays?
Housing a homeless individual for one year with supports costs $11,000 to $13,000. That’s cheaper, more effective and more humane than the alternative – frequent arrests, EMT runs and nights spent at shelters, jails, detox facilities and hospital emergency rooms, costing taxpayers $19,208 per person annually. Funding for HousingWorks comes from governmental sources, foundations, religious and corporate groups and individuals.

Will the plan make Utah a magnet for the homeless?
No. Utah is not acting alone. Ending chronic homelessness is a federal goal spanning more 350 cities and counties nationwide. And contrary to popular belief, we don’t have a large transient population. The vast majority of homeless Utahns – 85 percent – listed a Utah address prior to becoming homeless, according to a survey of clients at the state's largest homeless shelter.

Why pay to house the chronically homeless when countless working class families struggle to afford homes?
You’re paying now. Though few in number – comprising 9 percent of Utah’s homeless population – the chronically homeless consume more than 60 percent of the resources devoted to combating homelessness. Housing the chronically homeless frees up space at our local shelters for families, most of whom stay for brief periods and readily find permanent housing on their own. All of our tenants must pay 30 percent of their income toward rent.

Will these apartment buildings be eyesores, drive down property values and pose a public safety risk to communities?
No. Our properties are designed to complement and beautify communities. Some have a more industrial, urban-loft, appeal, whereas others look more like a country townhome. They are built with quality materials and to certain energy-efficiency standards. Experience shows our residences pose no threat to public safety or property values.

Will this plan solve our panhandling problem?
No. Most panhandlers aren’t homeless. The only way to stop panhandling is to stop giving them money. The Downtown Alliance and Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce are advocating for an ordinance to ban aggressive panhandling. These groups also publish a brochure with tips on how to avoid panhandlers.

How can I help?
Get involved. Call 2-1-1 and volunteer. Become a HousingWorks employer and hire a homeless Utahn.

Spread the word – tell your customers and employees about HousingWorks

If you see someone panhandling, loitering or intoxicated, call homeless outreach at 631-7584. Or, take your cash and donate it to a local shelter or the Pamela Atkinson Homeless Trust Fund.

I’m homeless. Where can I go for help?
Dial 2-1-1 to find housing, a shelter or outreach worker near you. Or click here for an interactive map with local resources.