Do as the Danish

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Walking around Portland, Oregon and many, many other metropolitan cities we are often left with the image of someone living on the street as we pass by living our daily lives.  The issue of homelessness has left us desensitized to the atrocities that happen under our own noses. Tackling homelessness in a society like that of the United States often feels impossible to many yet countries like Denmark prove to us every day that it can be possible, if only we implement the correct strategies. For years now the Danish people have excelled in helping their people to the extent that only 1%(about 10,000 people) of the population struggles with housing issues. Although not totally eradicated we can use Denmark's strategies as a blueprint for a better future for all citizens around the world. So what exactly works and how can we put that to use in a country Like the United States who struggles with this issue? 

Since 2009 Denmark's Ministry of Internal & Social Affairs has implemented a strategy that overhauls the issue by examining it through an evidence-based approach. By doing so they dissect the issue of homelessness and targets ways that tackle the issue at it's core. BY doing so they found 4 main goals that have allowed for their strategies to work. It's 4 main goals are: 

1. No citizens should live a life on the street. 
2. Young people should not stay at homeless hostels, but must be offered alternative solutions. 
3. Periods of accommodation in care homes or shelters should last no longer than three to four months for citizens who are prepared to move into their own homes with the necessary support. 
4. Release from prison or discharge from courses of treatment or hospitals must presuppose that an accommodation solution is in place. 

Looking at these goals often seems trivial to many but implementing these goals targets those most vulnerable to homelessness - youth and minorities. We can no longer sit back and wonder why this is happening. With rising costs and rent, action is needed now more than ever. 

Read more about the Danish approach by visiting FK Hansen's Journal titled The Homeless Strategy in Denmark. 

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