Using cross-sector partnerships to support homeless families: A systems integration approach

Background: In recent years, there has been a growth in the number of families and children who are experiencing homelessness. Families and children who are homeless are more likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, developmental delays, and substance use disorders. Fragmented services systems can often make stabilizing and receiving needed services a difficult or impossible process for these families. Objective: The primary objective of systems integration is to promote collaboration across the systems that serve homeless families to better meet the needs of this vulnerable population. Methods: There are five primary strategies that are used in the systems integration approach: Coalition building, aligning and connecting cross-system initiatives, cross-training, targeted training and technical assistance, and advocacy. These strategies are used in combination with intensive case management services provided by the Family Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) service team to mitigate the effect of homelessness on families. Results: Systems integration has increased collaboration across service systems to work towards reducing the barriers to accessing services and resources needed by homeless families. In addition to the success of the individual services homeless families get from the FACT service team, systems integration has also created partnerships across sectors to better tailor their programs and services to meet the specific needs of homeless families. Conclusion: The impact of homelessness is cumulative and may put achieving life’s successes at risk. By using the systems integration approach and promoting cross-sector collaboration, intervention services and family assistance can be targeted to be most effective to those most in need. Systems integration is an effective way to create systemic change and promote long term stability for homeless families.