Connecticut Approves Policy Changes to Better Serve Families with Young Children Experiencing Homelessness

The Connecticut Early Childhood Cabinet approved a series of proposals in the fall of 2015 to better serve the estimated 3,000 to 6,000 families with young children who are homeless in the state. The budget-neutral policy changes were put forth by a subcommittee made up of representatives from a variety of state agencies and provider organizations. Collectively, they aim to create a better coordinated network of policy and social supports to minimize the trauma and long-term impact of homelessness on young children’s development while supporting parents to create safe, stable, and secure households for their families. The approved proposals are focused on three policy areas:

• Health care: The state will explore Medicaid options to introduce an intensive care coordination model and provide evidence-based services, including infant mental health services and family-oriented mental health services with community health workers.
• Early care and education: The state will provide families with young children experiencing homelessness priority access to early care and education.
• Housing: The state will create a preference for homeless families for turnover units in the state-administered Section 8 housing program.

More detailed implementation plans for each of the proposals are currently being developed. Most can be achieved through administrative changes.