Phoenix tries new approach to homelessness

October 25, 2012

The City of Phoenix is launching a new initiative aimed at ending homelessness. Under the plan, money that now goes to homeless services will go into housing, at no extra cost to taxpayers. City Manager David Cavazos explains what the new strategy can do for the chronically homeless.

DAVID CAVAZOS: About 200 chronically homeless individuals will have access to permanent housing over the next three years. So we will have a comprehensive approach. This is the first time these vouchers will be used in conjunction with other social services.

The city will use a vulnerability index to determine the most eligible prospects, instead of the old first come, first served system. The program is expected to start in July.