Examining peer networking as a capacity-building strategy for Housing First implementation

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Social Work
• Public Policy

Background:

• Chronic homelessness is a complex issue requiring multifaceted interventions.
• Housing First (HF) is a community-based strategy designed to address chronic homelessness.
• Effective implementation of HF relies on robust capacity building among community leaders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine peer networking as a capacity-building strategy for Housing First (HF) implementation.
• To understand how multicommunity peer networks contribute to leader capacity in the homelessness sector.
• To identify contextual factors influencing the effectiveness of peer networking for HF.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative, multiple case study approach was employed.
• Data were collected through document analysis, key informant interviews (n=10), and focus groups.
• Thematic analyses were conducted within each case, followed by a cross-case analysis.

Main Results:

• Multicommunity peer networks enhance leader capacity by fostering trust, communication, and knowledge sharing.
• Peer networks facilitate continuous improvement and aid in navigating the complexities of HF implementation.
• Contextual factors significantly influence the relationship between peer networking and capacity building.

Conclusions:

• Peer networks serve as a vital resource for community leaders implementing Housing First.
• They provide essential support and contextually relevant knowledge for advancing local HF adaptations.
• Investing in peer networking is crucial for enhancing the capacity of leaders in the homelessness sector.