07 | The Flexible Housing Pool: System Coordination to Address Chicago’s Homelessness In The Solution

 In 1991 the United Nations declared housing to be a fundamental human right, and the United States has worked to reduce overall homelessness by over 20 percent between 2005 and 2013.  However, homelessness continues to persist across the country, with the highest concentration in mid-to-large metropolitan areas and disproportionately impacts those living in poverty, people of color and immigrants. 
Those experiencing homelessness also have the highest rates of chronic mental, behavioral and physical disease have significant barriers to health care and affordable housing and a lower life expectancy.  Their use of emergency services for episodic care also leads to higher treatment costs.