Research Symposium

BIO

Maria Hernandez is a Sophomore majoring in Political Science and Criminology. Throughout this year, she has been able to work alongside Gian Morrison and Greyson Carr on analyzing Leon County's homelessness initiatives and their effectiveness. As she works towards attending law school and becoming an attorney, this experience has provided her with useful skills that will be essential for her future career.

The Effectiveness of Affordable Housing Policies and Initiatives in Tallahassee, Florida

Abstract

Homelessness in Tallahassee and Leon County remains a persistent and growing challenge, entrapping society’s most vulnerable groups. As contemporary research on homelessness continues to evolve, affordable housing initiatives become increasingly recognized as essential policy tools. Despite these efforts, Leon County continues to face significant challenges, including rental costs, a limited supply of affordable units, and increasing demand for supportive services. Additionally, there has been limited evaluation of how effective these initiatives are in improving housing stability and reducing the number of individuals experiencing homelessness. This study employs a mixed-method approach combining descriptive data analysis with qualitative data gathered through first-person accounts. Although final results are still pending, the research anticipates identifying substantial structural barriers that prevent individuals from accessing affordable housing in Tallahassee. The findings aim to provide evidence-based insights to guide policymakers, service providers, and community stakeholders in strengthening affordable housing strategies, improving program design, and ultimately reducing homelessness.

Keywords: Homelessness, Analysis, Effectiveness, Policies.