Resident identified strengths and challenges of project-based permanent supportive housing program implementation in a small metropolitan county

ABSTRACT Abstract: Permanent supportive housing (PSH) programs modeled in the Housing First approach have been widely implemented in the United States for housing individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness. Yet within the evidence base, resident experiences and perceptions of Project-Based PSH program implementation are less understood, and there is no research on resident experiences of project-based program implementation within small metropolitan communities in the United States. Utilizing a collaborative approach founded in the principles of participatory action research (PAR) to orientate research processes, we critically examine resident-identified strengths and challenges of living at St. Mary’s House, a Project-Based PSH program in Whatcom County, Washington. Data analysis of participant observation and semi-structured interviews explore the positive and negative dimensions of program surveillance measures and living together in PSH, as well as how program “exits” undermine residents’ expectations of permanency. The implications from our findings highlight the importance of both listening directly to residents, and developing resident-driven programming expressly designed for meaningful and inclusive participation.