Examining the estimated costs and patterns of homelessness within the Reno-Sparks/Washoe County Region.

摘要

Homelessness in the Reno-Sparks/Washoe County region is a significantly increasing problem facing our community. In more recent years, questions have been raised about whether the many public resources used by homeless individuals are ultimately more costly than housing and other services that could be used to prevent homelessness or to mitigate some of the costs incurred by interceding. Precise data on the social and financial costs associated with the homeless have been difficult to obtain, making it complicated for policy makers to evaluate the issues completely.; This thesis develops a methodology in which the current homeless situation within the region may be analyzed and examines homeless-related costs and capacity of services used. Based on the results, recommendations and policy initiatives are made to promote improved allocation and utilization of resources for the benefit of the public and the specific populations served.