Resulting from a unique collaboration between Good Shepherd Services and the Center for Innovation through Data Intelligence (CIDI), this study compared several outcomes among participants in a supportive housing program - the Chelsea Foyer at the Christopher - to the outcomes of a comparison group of individuals who applied for and were eligible for supportive housing, but who were not placed in supportive housing. This work was made possible with generous support from the Larson Family Foundation.
This study used a quasi-experimental study design to compare the outcomes of individuals who participated in the Chelsea Foyer from 2006 to 2013 to the outcomes of individuals who were eligible for supportive housing because they were aging out of foster care, but were not placed due to program availability. The groups were matched using propensity score matching on demographic variables and service use two years prior to program entry ("pre-period"). Outcomes were measured for two years from the program entry date or first eligibility date.
Foyer participants had significantly lower rates of shelter use than the comparison group. Controlling for other factors, Foyer participants were 36% less likely to have a stay in the single adult shelter system.
Foyer participants had significantly lower rates of jail stays than the comparison group. Controlling for other factors, Foyer participants were 55% less likely to go to jail during this time period.
The proportion of Foyer participants enrolled in college increased by 37.6% during the two years after program start compared to the pre-period.
The proportion of Foyer participants employed increased by 10.5% during the two years after program start compared to the pre period.
In partnership with Good Shepherd Services
Funded by the Larson Family Foundation
NYC Human Resources Administration
NYC Administration for Children's Services
NYC Department of Homeless Services
NYC Department of Correction
Amy Dworsky, Senior Researcher, Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago
Timothy Ross, Managing Partner, Action Research Partners
Paving the Way for a More Prosperous Future for Young Adults: Results of an Outcomes Study of the Chelsea Foyer at the Christopher