Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness

U.S. federal program assisting homeless individuals with mental illness

Overview

The Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) is a federal program in the United States designed to provide services to individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and have serious mental illnesses. The program is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and aims to support the transition of these individuals into stable housing and access to mental health services.

History

The PATH program was established under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act of 1987, which was later renamed the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. The act was a response to the growing crisis of homelessness in the United States during the 1980s, particularly among individuals with mental health issues. PATH was created to address the unique needs of this population by providing funding to states and territories to support local service providers.

Program Structure

PATH funds are distributed to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. territories. The program supports a wide range of services, including outreach, screening and diagnostic treatment, habilitation and rehabilitation, community mental health services, alcohol or drug treatment, and staff training. The goal is to help individuals achieve housing stability and improve their quality of life.

PATH building in Los Angeles, July 2023

Services Provided

PATH-funded services are tailored to meet the needs of individuals with serious mental illnesses who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Key services include:

• Outreach and Engagement: Identifying and engaging individuals who are homeless and have mental health issues.
• Screening and Diagnostic Treatment: Providing assessments to determine the mental health needs of individuals.
• Community Mental Health Services: Offering ongoing mental health support and treatment.
• Substance Use Treatment: Addressing co-occurring substance use disorders.
• Case Management: Coordinating services and support to help individuals access housing and other resources.
• Housing Services: Assisting with finding and maintaining stable housing.

Impact and Challenges

The PATH program has been instrumental in helping thousands of individuals transition from homelessness to stable housing. However, the program faces challenges such as limited funding, the complexity of needs among the target population, and the ongoing shortage of affordable housing. Despite these challenges, PATH continues to be a critical component of the national strategy to end homelessness.

Related pages

• Homelessness in the United States
• Mental health in the United States
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act