Homecoming Toolkit:
Advancing Low-Barrier Housing
for People Who Use Substances
The Homecoming Toolkit provides practical guidance for housing providers and frontline staff to design and implement low-barrier, person-centered housing programs. These programs improve access, stability, and well-being for people experiencing homelessness, including those who use substances.
The
Challenge
Homelessness and opioid overdoses are urgent public health crises. In Los Angeles County, overdose is the leading cause of death among people experiencing homelessness. Traditional housing models often require sobriety or treatment—creating barriers for those most in need.
The
Opportunity
Low-barrier housing removes these requirements and prioritizes immediate access to safe, stable housing with voluntary supports. This approach improves housing stability, reduces overdose risk, and strengthens community health. Housing is the foundation for stability, healing, and long-term well-being.
What is Low-Barrier Housing?
Low-barrier housing provides access without requirements like sobriety or treatment. It is grounded in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and human-centered design—creating environments where people feel respected, supported, and empowered.
What the Toolkit Helps You Do
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Remove barriers to housing access
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Increase housing retention
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Integrate harm reduction into operations
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Implement overdose prevention practices
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Support staff well-being and capacity
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Build cross-sector partnerships
The Homecoming Toolkit was developed by: Change Well Project, in partnership with
the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services – Harm Reduction Division