Continuum of Care
The Continuum of Care was created by HUD in 1994 as a policy to help coordinate the provision of housing and services to homeless people. With the introduction of Continuum of Care planning, communities were encouraged to envision, organize, and plan comprehensive and long-term solutions to address the problem of homelessness. The strategic planning conducted through this process also forms the basis of a Continuum of Care plan and application to HUD for McKinney/Vento Homeless Assistance funds.
The Continuum of Care serves three main purposes:
- It is a strategic plan for addressing homelessness in the community;
- It is a strategic process to develop a broad based, community wide, year round initiative;
- It is an application to HUD for McKinney/Vento homeless-targeted housing and services resources.
The HUD McKinney/Vento Homeless Assistance programs have formed the backbone of local efforts by the homeless providers across the nation to address the many needs of homeless individuals and families in states and communities. The programs include:
- Shelter Plus Care;
- Supportive Housing Program;
- Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation Single Room Occupancy.
For more information:
How to Be a Player in the Continuum of Care is designed to provide the mental health community with the necessary tools to be active participants in HUD's Continuum of Care process in their community or state.
A Guide to Continuum of Care Planning and Implementation
TAC's Opening Doors Issue 13 discusses the Continuum of Care in depth, discussing specifically the importance of permanent housing opportunities for people who are homeless.
HUD’s Continuum of Care Funding Announcement
HUD’s Continuum of Care program information
Local Continuum of Care contacts.