As part of a larger evaluation of the Chronic Homelessness Initiative for the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, Abt Associates examined the Flexible Housing Subsidy Pool (FHSP) and how the program is currently used in the community. This report offers an analysis of the FHSP's creation, partnerships, operation and implementation, as well as the role of philanthropy and evaluation in this type of initiative.

Based on the underlying philosophy that housing is a crucial form of healthcare for patients without a stable living situation, the goal of the FHSP was to secure quality affordable housing for people who are experiencing homelessness and have complex physical and behavioral health conditions. DHS paired these flexible rental subsidies with intensive case management services provided by local community organizations for clients. These organizations use a “whatever it takes” approach when providing services to clients as they move from homelessness to permanent housing.