This section refers to cross-system collaboration and system-level strategies that can and should be taken into consideration when planning a youth-responsive homelessness system. It has two main areas of intervention: 1) Cross-system collaboration and coordination, and 2) System-level strategies. For more information on each of the strategies, best practices, examples, evidence and more, see Summarizing Table: Housing Models for Youth and Housing Stabilization.
Cross-system collaboration and coordination refers to the effective and efficient interaction between systems that youth may encounter, such as the juvenile justice system, foster care system and other social services, and the health care system. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides grant funds to communities that prioritize coordination and accessibility because this type of response can greatly reduce the number of youth who experience homelessness (10).
System-level strategies take place within and across systems that youth at risk of homelessness may interact with. These strategies often incorporate creative approaches to using these systems to prevent at-risk youth from falling through the figurative cracks. These tactics are especially effective when they include youth voices in planning and decision-making (43).
