The Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Homelessness Response provides guidance for how homelessness systems can leverage the CARES Act and approval of other funding sources (such as FEMA Public Assistance) to simultaneously conduct emergency protective measures while planning for recovery-oriented uses of these funds.
Download a brief guide to using the Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Homelessness Response.
Purpose of this Framework
- To provide guidance on how communities can use these funds strategically across a range of key public health and economic recovery strategies
- To help communities meet public health goals
- To increase housing stability
- To prevent future increases in homelessness that result from an economic downturn
All components of this framework must include a racial justice and equity lens.
These actions will need to be coordinated across many partners and systems, and across all levels of government, including emergency management offices and emergency operations; cash assistance programs; public health, physical health, and behavioral health care; homelessness services and housing; food and nutrition; and others.
This Framework will be constantly updated as information on strategies, protocols, funding sources, implementation tools, and other resources emerge.
The most recent version of the Framework is dated June 5, 2020. If this version does not appear when downloading, please refresh your browser.
Introducing the Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Homelessness Response
Ann Oliva, Visiting Senior Fellow at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, explains the Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Homelessness Response.
Making the Case for the Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Homelessness Response
Nan Roman (National Alliance to End Homelessness) and Marc Dones (National Innovation Service) discuss the guiding principles of the Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Homelessness Response.
Prioritizing ESG-CV Resources
Marc Dones (National Innovation Service) and Nan Roman (National Alliance to End Homelessness) discuss how to best use ESG-CV funds in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Introducing the Equity Based Decision Making Framework
Marc Dones (National Innovation Service) and Ann Oliva (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities) discuss the Equity-Based Decision-Making Framework, to support communities in implementing the Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Response.
At-A-Glance Matrix: How to Fund COVID-19 Homelessness Responses with CARES Act Funding
Barb Poppe and Matthew Doherty, former Executive Directors of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, discuss a matrix to help communities maximize resources from relief funds as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Emergency Rental Assistance Priority Index
As states and localities allocate emergency rental assistance funds to help renters avoid losing their homes, a new tool developed by Urban Institute researchers can help local leaders prioritize the most vulnerable renters as part of an equitable COVID-19 response.
An appendix of resources can aid in implementing each section of the Framework: Unsheltered, Shelter, Housing, Prevention and Diversion, and Strengthening Systems for the Future.