Source: WMNF
A California pilot program allowing homeless shelters to accommodate pets has shown promising results in reducing homelessness among participants. Established in 2019, the Pet Assistance and Support Program provided $15.75 million to 37 organizations to create pet-friendly shelter spaces, supply pet care, and offer Veterinary services. Researchers from the University of Southern California found the program helped 4,407 unhoused individuals keep their pets while accessing services, with 886 successfully transitioning into permanent housing, exceeding the statewide average.
Despite this success, the proportion of homeless individuals with pets in Los Angeles has increased from about one in eight before the pandemic to one in five by 2025. Reasons remain unclear but may include rising housing costs or companionship needs. The findings suggest pet-friendly shelters improve engagement and outcomes, but broader expansion is needed. Without increased affordable housing and continued investment in such programs, homelessness is likely to rise further, both for pet owners and the general population.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.wmnf.org/pet%E2%80%91friendly-homeless-shelter-pilot-reduced-rate-homelessness/