Up First from NPR A Home But Not A Cure
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Feb 16, 2025 
Will James, a seasoned reporter and producer at KUOW, dives into the Housing First initiative aimed at addressing homelessness. He highlights personal stories, including Kenny Taylor's journey from homelessness to stable housing, while candidly discussing the initiative's successes and shortcomings. The conversation addresses ongoing criticisms of the Housing First model amid rising homelessness rates and the looming fentanyl crisis, ultimately questioning if the approach is enough to support those in need.
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Kenny's Success
- Kenny Taylor, a formerly homeless man, has lived in the Union Hotel for 30 years.
- This Housing First residence was his first stable home, allowing him to get sober and pursue creative goals.
Housing First Backlash
- Housing First, the dominant U.S. homelessness strategy, faces criticism.
- Conservatives seek programs requiring treatment and sobriety before housing.
Doubts about Housing First Effectiveness
- Doubts about Housing First's effectiveness aren't solely political, coming from service providers and formerly homeless individuals.
- The program's efficacy is questioned amidst record homelessness numbers.
