The report released by the Housing Innovation Lab highlights the troubling reality that many frontline workers helping Connecticut’s homeless population are themselves housing-insecure, with some even facing homelessness.
The study, conducted in Fairfield County and Northwestern Connecticut, reveals that a significant portion of shelter staff earn below the area median income and struggle to meet basic needs. Many workers have had to take second jobs or access food assistance to make ends meet.
The findings emphasize the need to address low wages for these essential workers, especially those earning less than $33,975 annually.
The report points to systemic issues, as government-funded programs supporting homeless services have not kept pace with rising living costs, leading to underfunded services and unfilled vacancies in critical roles.
As homelessness in Connecticut has risen by 13% from 2023 to 2024, the state’s budget for homelessness services has failed to meet the growing need, exacerbating the problem.
Nationally, homelessness has increased by 12%, driven by rising housing costs that outstrip wages.
The report’s recommendations focus on increasing wages, improving training, and involving people with lived experience in discussions about systemic change.
It also calls for examining the role of race and gender in service delivery, an area identified for further exploration.
This report underscores the urgent need for action to support both the workers in the system and those experiencing homelessness.