The Multnomah County Board held a briefing on March 12, 2024, focusing on the evaluation of the rapid rehousing program, a key component of the county's homelessness response strategy. The meeting was initiated by a request from Commissioner Myron, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive assessment of rapid rehousing's effectiveness in aiding individuals experiencing homelessness.

During the briefing, it was highlighted that the Joint Office of Homeless Services successfully assisted 5,477 individuals in securing housing in the previous fiscal year. Additionally, 2,775 people received support to prevent eviction, showcasing the program's proactive approach to homelessness. Notably, 92% of individuals in permanent supportive housing remained housed after one year, and 88% of those who utilized rapid rehousing vouchers last year were still in stable housing.

The presentation outlined the structure of rapid rehousing, which combines short-term rental assistance with supportive services, and discussed the various programs under this initiative. The Joint Office plans to conduct a more extensive evaluation of rapid rehousing, which will include analyzing current housing statuses, eviction rates, and the experiences of both recipients and providers.

Key metrics for retention were also discussed, with a focus on improving data collection methods to better understand the long-term stability of individuals who have received assistance. The evaluation aims to identify disparities in outcomes among different demographic groups and to assess whether rapid rehousing is effectively serving those in higher need.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing evaluation and improvement of the rapid rehousing program, ensuring it remains a vital tool in addressing homelessness in Multnomah County. The Joint Office will continue to refine its strategies and gather data to enhance the effectiveness of its interventions.