M-A-D Prison Ministry

Homes for Homeless Nevadans 10 Year Plan to Reduce Homelessness 

http://old.lasvegasnevada.gov//files/Homes4HomelessNevadansPlan.pdf

 

Homelessness is a significant problem in the city of Las Vegas and throughout the region. While there are no simple solutions to the complexity of homelessness, one agency or jurisdiction cannot solve it alone. Civic leader, faith based organizations, service providers, businesses and consumers, and neighborhoods must work together to assist those who want to help themselves. Although the national movement focuses on ending chronic homelessness, the city of Las Vegas has gone beyond the national call to focus on individuals and families that are chronically, episodically or temporarily homeless. 

 

The Homes for Homeless Nevadans Plan ( and now also M-A-D After Jail/Prison Ministry) is a significant step forward in enhancing existing homeless services and finding new innovative ways to reduce homelessness. This plan provides the framework for reducing and ending homelessness. More importantly, it will reduce incidences of homelessness. Increasing opportunities for permanent housing combined with case management and supportive services, homeless individuals and families can regain a sense of normalcy and permanent self sufficiency.

 

The city of Las Vegas recognizes the need for a comprehensive, coordinated, and continuous effort to reduce homelessness. Developing an interagency continuum is just one small step that will reap momentous benefits not only for homeless individuals and families but to the city as well. As with the Southern Nevada Regional Homeless and Housing Plan, Homes for Homeless Nevadans will be a living document that will change as policies, directions, and administrations change. Modifications to the plan will also be made in response to the success or failure of individual or collective strategies, local and/or regional priorities, or other dynamics that change implementation of homeless services.

 

Through this process, the planning committee witnessed the spirit of Las Vegas at its best. Hundreds of dedicated individuals took part in hearty solution focused discussions to reduce and end homelessness in the city of Las Vegas. Community leaders, homeless and formerly homeless, service providers, business leaders, and community members all worked together to develop these strategies. Thanks to their input and recommendations, especially from the homeless in this community, the road map is off to a good start and will only improve as the city moves forward to strategically address this issue. By continuing to work together, the city and this community will significantly reduce homelessness in ten years. 

 

Desired Outcomes Over the next 10 years, the city will work towards the following outcomes: ƒ

 

Reduced number of households entering the cycle of homelessness.

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Higher levels of service and customer satisfaction for clients participating in city programs. ƒ

 

Reduced recidivism rates for ex-felons and chronic inebriates participating in the EVOLVE program and homeless individuals in the municipal court system. ƒ

 

Increased rates of placement into permanent housing for homeless clients participating in city programs. ƒ

 

Reduced duplication of services among government entities and non-profit organizations. ƒ

 

Greater capacity building with partner organizations ƒ

 

Lower cost and enhanced service delivery for government and service providers. ƒ

 

Increased perception among the homeless that services are available to assist them. ƒ

 

Increased employability, job readiness, job placement and retention for at-risk individuals. ƒ

 

Increased inventory of affordable housing in the Las Vegas valley. ƒ

 

Perceived improvement in their living situation among formerly homeless individuals. ƒ

 

Reduced number of homeless crisis situations and homeless interventions.