A Grounded Theory of Provider Perspectives Regarding Resident Moves from Permanent Supportive Housing

Abstract

To address the ongoing supply-demand gap for permanent supportive housing (PSH), Moving On initiatives (MOIs) provide linkage to affordable housing without embedded support services and rental subsidies, as well as short-term transitional case management to support transitions to independent housing. PSH providers mediate outcomes for individuals moving on from PSH by providing appropriate supports and assistance. Yet, little is known about how providers view these moves. This study explores how providers perceive moves from PSH. Individual interviews were completed with PSH providers from seven U.S. agencies. Data was analyzed via a modified grounded theory approach. The data show that organizational support and prior experience with moving on shape providers’ perceptions of resident capacity. These perceptions were associated with gatekeeping and recovery-oriented approaches, which informed providers’ self-perceived role as following or leading residents towards moving on. System-level support and pressure to adopt a moving on mindset may lead more providers to promote independence and autonomy among individuals with histories of homelessness.

Keywords

• homelessness
• moving on initiatives
• permanent supportive housing
• grounded theory
• diffusion theory
• homeless service providers