From the VI-SPDAT to the HAT bringing problem solving back
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After using the VI-SPDAT for the last 5 years, it was decided to create a new housing assessment tool (HAT) that focuses on housing people in the most appropriate housing. To do this, we spent the summer of 2021 working with providers, shelter workers, street outreach workers, housing case managers, and program managers to find the quickest way to identify appropriate housing using people-first language. The HAT looks at categories such as a client's strengths and weaknesses, what type of housing the client prefers, and where the client would like to live. The HAT helps us assess the best housing intervention for the client, such as RRH/Short term Rental Assistance, Transitional Housing, Long-Term rental subsidy, alternative housing, and site base case management housing. The HAT allows staff responses and will enable providers to use problem-solving skills based on the client's responses and capacity. The HAT encourages the client to provide their own preferences and insight and to advocate for what they desire. This tool provides information for appropriate housing interventions and a treasure trove of information that allows us to better advocate for our client's needs and the resources needed to meet that demand.