Role of Funders:
What other types of support can funders provide to help fight homelessness?
Funding Housing and Services
for the Homeless
The creation of a supportive housing program often takes years from initial planning to the opening of the doors for residents. At each stage of development, there are key moments when support from private funders can help agencies, nonprofits, communities and developers move the process along and even accelerate it. Here are just a few of the ways funders can be involved.
Strategic planning includes grants and support to:
- organize local and regional supportive housing partnerships
- involve community in assessing chronically homeless needs
- marshal support services, housing and development resources
- develop implementation plans and schedules
Pre-development funding includes grants and support for:
- property and location feasibility studies
- architectural plans, drawings and fees
- engineering plans, surveys and fees
- options to hold and control land and buildings
- interim or bridge loans while long-term financing is assembled
Development funding includes grants and Program Related Investments to:
- provide technical assistance and support to new developers
- acquire, rehabilitate and/or construct supportive housing
Post-development funding includes grants and support to:
- train providers to manage the operation of supportive housing programs
- evaluate the effectiveness of specific programs
- track and measure overall results
- research and initiate new programs and service
Advocacy funding includes grants and support to
- promote systems change in government and provider networks
- support national advocacy groups working on homelessness and housing
- encourage local, state and national initiatives and partnerships to build public and
- government support to end chronic homelessness.
Other questions & answers related to this topic:
Why is homelessness an important issue for funders?
What other networks exist for funders with an interest in causes related to homelessness?
Private and Family Foundations: What is Your Role?
Community Foundations and Regional Funders: What is Your Role?
What types of funding are needed to develop effective and sustainable supportive housing?
What are some tips for funders interested in funding efforts to fight chronic homelessness?
How can I find supportive housing programs and other initiatives to end homelessness in my own community or state?