EXPLORING SHARED HOUSING AS A SOLUTION TO INTERGENERATIONAL HOMELESSNESS IN CAMDEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY

This research addresses the urgent homelessness crisis in Camden, New Jersey, where a severe lack of affordable housing fuels intergenerational poverty. It investigates shared housing – a model involving unrelated individuals sharing a residence while maintaining private spaces – as a cost effective intervention capable of reducing housing assistance costs by up to 30%. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, analyzing existing shared housing models in Camden and similar urban contexts, while gathering stakeholder perspectives through interviews and surveys. Applying Housing First Model and Social Capital theories, this research identifies barriers to implementation, particularly landlord hesitation and community opposition. Anticipated results will demonstrate the potential of shared housing as a "prevention-as-cure" strategy, providing economic relief and psychosocial support for beneficiaries. This project will generate actionable policy recommendations, including a strategic landlord engagement program and initiatives to promote community acceptance. By advancing sustainable, upstream interventions, this work contributes to disrupting the cycle of intergenerational homelessness and promoting equity in Camden