Learning from lived expertise is invaluable.
“Shelter Diversion was the best thing that happened to us.” “Shelter Diversion assistance was top tier.”
“I was lucky to have a case manager help me through the process.”
“My experience was great due to the resources my family and I received.”
These are real quotes from real Cincinnatians with lived experience of homelessness. Showing how programs like Shelter Diversion improve the lives of our neighbors. And how with participant input, we can continue to improve our services.
Learning from Lived Expertise
In March 2023, Strategies to End Homelessness made a renewed effort to engage community members with lived experience. Participating in our Continuum of Care for the Homeless. And provide input and policy recommendations on local efforts. Ensuring our homeless services system is effective and equitable. Qualifying applicants enter into a paid Consulting Agreement and commit to attending monthly Work Group meetings.
Coordinating with other members of the Work Group, people with lived expertise advocate for system reform. And for necessary funding at the federal, state, local, and community levels. Supportive of Cincinnati/Hamilton County’s Continuum of Care Strategic Plan.
Streamlining the recruitment process resulted in 30 applications in one month. With more applying each day. These applicants have passion, a unique perspective and understanding. And are advocating for change. They have already made excellent suggestions to improve the system and have identified system gaps they’ve personally experienced.
And agencies across the country are taking the same approach. Partnering with people with lived experience.
Addressing Inequities
We also acknowledge that Black, Indigenous and People of Color experience homelessness at disproportionate rates. And have greater difficulty becoming and remaining stably housed due to systemic racial disparities.
Ending Homelessness can’t happen while these disparities remain. So, we committed to dismantling racist systems. In turn, building inclusive, equitable ones.
We pledge to focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and promote and encourage diverse voices to ensure all members of our community are heard. And have the opportunity to succeed.
