A step by step approach to identify current and future resources and services for the
homeless. Designed for individuals or groups who are dedicated to having an impact on
the homelessness crisis in their communities (urban, suburban, rural).
STEP 1 – Recognize you have a passion for helping the homeless.
● Self-experience
● Family
● Friends
● Community/Neighborhood
● Situational
● Generational
● Educate (read, view, listen, social media, AI)
● Make a Difference
● Compassionate/Caring
STEP 2 – Identify collaborators.
● Homeless Alliances and Organizations
● Social Workers
● Nonprofits
● Schools
● Other Support Disciplines
● Agencies/Organizations
● Government Officials
● Businesses/Corporations
● University Programs, Professors, and Students
STEP 3 – Conduct an exhaustive review of the literature (books, journals, articles)
● Definitions
● History
● Causes
● Effects
● Services
● Resources
● Outcomes
STEP 4 – Obtain existing demographic data (needs assessment).
● Numbers
● Race
● Gender
● Age
● Geography
● Federal, State, Local
● HUD – Point-In-Time Count (sheltered, unsheltered, doubled-up)
STEP 5 – Identify types of homelessness.
● Chronic
● Mentally Ill
● Addicted (drugs/alcohol)
● Youth
● Single Adults
● Unaccompanied Youth
● Families and Children
● Aging
● Veterans
● LGBQT+
STEP 6 – Identify laws, policies and programs.
● Federal
● State
● Local
● Safety Net
● Youth
● Housing (permanent/transitional)
● Continuum of Care (CoC)
● VA
● Education
● Mental Health
● Abuse
● Grants
● Nonprofits
STEP 7 – Become cognizant of Systemic Failure.
● Poverty
● Inequality
● Diversity
● Equity
● Inclusion
● Laws. Policies, Programs
● Racism
● Prejudice, Discrimination, Hate
STEP 8 – Conduct a “hands on” (community research and investigation of resources
and services)
● Nonprofits
● Shelters
● Food Banks, Pantries, Soup Kitchens
● Social Services
● Health Services (physical, mental, emotional)
● Abuse and Addiction Supports
● Churches
● Law Enforcement
● Businesses/Corporations
STEP 9 – Meet with community leaders.
● Nonprofit Directors
● Government Officials (congressional, state, local)
● Organizations and Agencies
● Social Services
● Health Services
● Law Enforcement
● Media
STEP 10 – Research and identify funding sources.
● Federal
● State
● Local
● Foundations
● Philanthropists
STEP 11 – Determine community needs and seek support.
● Awareness and Acceptance
● Targeting
● Prevention
● Housing
● Rehabilitation
● Resources
● Services
Prepared by:
02/05/26
Leon Swarts, Ed.D
leoneswarts@gmail.com
leonswartsbooks.com