The Homelessness Prevention and Diversion Fund (HPDF), launched in August 2020, is designed to prevent and reduce homelessness for youth and young adults (YYA) between the ages of 12 to 24 who are unaccompanied, doubled up/coach surfing, unsheltered, and unstably housed. HPDF operates in ten counties across Washington State: Clallam, Clark, Jefferson, Pierce, Skagit, Spokane, Thurston, Walla Walla, Whatcom, and Yakima. HPDF provides flexible financial assistance to divert YYA away from the homelessness response system, while not contributing to the overcapacity of that system.
This report evaluates the impact of HPDF from August 2020 to December 2025, combining both quantitative and qualitative data from request forms, surveys, interviews, focus groups, and the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). Findings reveal that HPDF is a highly effective and cost-efficient intervention that prevents youth homelessness and promotes immediate housing stability. Several key findings emerged from the evaluation goal of achieving Functional Zero for youth homelessness. Continued and increased financial investment, expanded outreach and marketing, and integration with supportive services will be critical to maximizing the long-term impact of HPDF for all communities across Washington State.
