Efforts to build an effective system to address homelessness through implementation of Springfield and Sangamon County’s 2022-2028 Strategic Plan to Address Homelessness are built on the foundation of a Housing First model. Recent conversations among community stakeholders have elevated the following needs: improving access to low-barrier shelter, improving access to mental health care services, and improving street outreach efforts.

The following document reflects exploration of these stated needs and analysis of local data by the Heartland Continuum of Care Board, Heartland HOUSED Strategy Board, and Heartland HOUSED Lived Experience Advisory Board to propose solutions.

You can view the 2025 HCoC Needs Assessment and Solutions document here.