Our research in this theme addresses the financial dimensions of homeless services, including revenue generation, funding allocation, and economic impacts on service provision.
Culhane, D. P., & An, S. (2022). Estimated Revenue of the Nonprofit Homeless Shelter Industry in the United States: Implications for a More Comprehensive Approach to Unmet Shelter Demand. Housing Policy Debate, 32(6), 823–836. https://doi.org/10.1080/10511482.2021.1905024
Summary:
This article examines the revenue and operations of nonprofit homeless shelters in the United States. The study estimates that these shelters generated about $8.5 billion in revenue in 2015. It also highlights that the sector employs around 160,000 people with an average annual compensation of $24,000. To provide universal bed coverage for all unsheltered individuals, an additional $3.3 to $4.5 billion annually would be required, indicating a significant funding gap
3 Key Takeaways:
Revenue Estimation: Nonprofit homeless shelters in the U.S. generated approximately $8.5 billion in revenue in 2015. This highlights the financial scale of these organizations in providing temporary housing.
Employment Figures: The sector employs around 160,000 people, with an average annual compensation of about $24,000. This reflects the significant human resources involved in shelter operations.
Funding Gap: To provide universal bed coverage for all unsheltered individuals, an additional $3.3 to $4.5 billion annually would be needed. This points to a substantial funding shortfall in addressing the full demand for shelter
Keywords: Nonprofit shelters, homeless services performance, housing policy, shelter demand, revenue