Doorways' 2023 annual report highlights our response to increasing needs for the safehousing and services we provide for survivors in our community. Learn more. What Is Housing First? Doorways implements the best practice of Housing First through our HomeStart Supportive Housing Program. Combined with Doorways' trauma-informed services, this program empowers our clients to move out of shelter and into housing as quickly as possible, providing support before, during, and after the transition. "What's the most immediate way to end a person's homelessness? Provide them with a safe and stable home. This concept is brought to life through the philosophy and approach called 'Housing First,' which prioritizes giving people permanent housing, without preconditions, like mandatory treatment programs, sobriety, or other services. This approach highlights the need for stable, secure housing above all, which then serves as a solid foundation for further supportive services." Housing First Facts Housing First recognizes that homelessness is, first and foremost, a housing crisis, which can be addressed and resolved by providing safe, affordable housing. Housing First is most commonly implemented through permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing. Housing First is also guided by the belief that a person should have agency in both their housing choice and participation in services. Learn More In the News How Black History Can Shape Homelessness Efforts "Black people have often been at the forefront of movements for social change across the United States, both past and present, from protesting racial segregation to organizing against police brutality. The repercussions of racism have yielded disparate outcomes for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities across the socioeconomic gamut, including homelessness. During Black History Month, the Alliance wanted to highlight the voices of Black leaders in the movement to end homelessness. Here’s why they say we should continue the commitment to racial equity and justice in the collective work to address this crisis." Read More Column: To solve homelessness, support reparations "The overrepresentation of Black people in the homeless population arises from 400 years of anti-Black racism entrenched in the structures, institutions, ideologies, and social norms of American life, starting with slavery." Read More Domestic Violence: One Step Away From Homelessness "Many survivors are forced to make the impossible decision to remain in an abusive relationship or escape and face the risk of homelessness due to lack of available housing." "We need to support survivors' basic economic needs by offering flexible funding assistance and permanent affordable housing." Read More Gun Violence Prevention Legislation Aims to Protect Survivors A bill aimed at disarming those convicted of domestic violence in order to protect survivors has passed both the Senate and House of the General Assembly. Although Virginia law prohibits those convicted of domestic violence from possessing firearms, there is no mechanism that allows for confirming compliance or enforcement by the courts or by police. SB 47 (Favola) / HB 46 (Bennett-Parker) aims to close this dangerous loophole by adding a surrender requirement. Read More Corporate Partner Spotlight Special thanks to the NVAR Cares Committee for awarding $2,000 to Doorways for housing! Action Alert: Survey Survey on Masculinity Project PEACE is asking Arlington community members to fill out this quick survey. Several participants will win a $15-$30 gift card in appreciation for their time. Thank you for your input! Take Survey Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email Doorways | P.O. Box 100185, Arlington, VA 22210 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected] powered by Try email marketing for free today!