DC HIV/AIDS Housing Symposium

Today I'm at Gallaudet University blogging live from the DC HIV/AIDS Housing Symposium. The focus on the morning panel was 'thinking outside of the box'. The focus is on thinking creatively and exploring all the options available in DC to meet the needs of people living with HIV in need of housing.

Part of that is looking beyond HIV/AIDS housing programs (when those programs are maxed out) and looking for other housing programs individuals may be eligible for. This includes housing programs supporting people in recovery, those with mental health issues, re-entry programs for folks who have been recently incarcerated, programs for veterans. In short, exploring every possible option for every possible individual. With the number of different programs, agencies, and guidelines, this can be an incredibly daunting task.

Another way to think outside the box? DC CARE Consortium announced that they are in the process of developing a new program with the support of AHPP. The program would provide mortgage and utility assistance to people living with HIV and are at risk of losin their homes. It's exciting to see this new option that will help people living with HIV before they become homeless.

Another topic was the importance of moving people into permanent housing when possible. One of the panelists from the Department of Housing and Urban Development stated a long term goal of moving 80% of HOPWA (Housing for People with HIV/AIDS) clients into more permanent housing option, using programs like Home Investment Partnerships (The HOME program).

Sadly, however, several of the programs discussed today (Shelter Plus, Section 8-11 Supportive Housing, etc...) are maxed out. Which is probably why so many people are here to learn what options are still out there. From where I'm sitting though, it seems like the demand is ging to exceed the capacity for a long time to come.

To see more pictures from today's symposium, click here.