Housing First: A Policy Analysis of the HEARTH Act

The paper examines Housing First (HF) policy in the context of Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing Act ([HEARTH], 2009) using a policy analysis framework. The analysis follows Ginsberg and Miller-Cribbs’ (2005) common elements of policy analysis and grounds the values and ethics in feminist ethic of care (Fisher & Tronto, 1990). The analysis examines both rational and moral considerations of HF in the context of the HEARTH Act. The values of the analysis are positioned in a feminist ethic of care framework that views caring as a moral and practical obligation. The paper argues that HF in the context of the HEARTH Act is responsive to a section of the homeless population. However, the paper points out inconsistencies in policy implementation. Based on the analysis, a broader definition of homelessness that encapsulates macro factors is recommended. In addition, participatory change strategies are recommended to effectively implement HF policy in communities.