ABOUT
This project is a randomized controlled trial aimed at reducing homelessness in Vancouver, BC, by providing one-time cash transfers. In the study, a group of people experiencing homelessness will receive an unconditional cash transfer, while another group will serve as a comparison group. Over the course of a year, researchers will track participants’ progress in areas like health, employment, education, social service use, and mental well-being. The study aims to create a comprehensive dataset to inform homelessness-reduction policies at municipal, provincial, and national levels.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
Participants receiving the cash transfer are expected to experience significant improvements in housing stability, with more days in stable housing, increased spending and savings, and fewer days homeless or relying on shelters compared to those in the control group. Additionally, cash recipients are projected to show better employment rates, improved health and cognitive function, higher subjective well-being, and enhanced food security. The intervention is also expected to lead to reduced reliance on social, health, and justice services.
HOW IT RELATES TO THE STONE CENTRE’S MISSION
This project aligns closely with the Stone Centre’s mission to understand and address income and wealth inequality by directly tackling the financial constraint of homelessness, which significantly contributes to income, social, and health disparity. By offering unconditional cash transfers and support services, the project seeks to identify the root causes and immediate needs of the homeless population. This is an innovative research initiative that not only seeks to provide immediate financial relief to individuals experiencing homelessness but also aims to create a robust evidence base for policy advocacy and systemic change, which closely aligns with the mission of the Stone Centre.