What is the Targeted Housing Assistance Program?

PSY’s Targeted Housing Assistance Program is a scalable, youth-driven solution to prevent youth homelessness. Modeled after Washington State’s Homelessness Prevention and Diversion Fund (HPDF), this intervention is a one-time cash payment to young people based on the resources needed through the construction of a housing plan. Alongside the cash payment are youth-directed services provided by a local community-based organization that might include housing navigation, financial coaching, and peer support.

This initiative is designed to test and improve upon community models for supporting young people to thrive in safe, stable housing without needing to enter the homelessness system. We believe that by trusting young people, removing financial barriers to housing, and offering supportive services before becoming unhoused, we will see more young people avoid homelessness and stay housed long-term.

Upcoming Projects

OAHU, HAWAII

Designing a Direct Cash Transfer Program

Point Source Youth (PSY) recently embarked on a collaborative effort with youth-serving organizations, local youth leaders and service providers on Oahu, Hawaii.

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How Does it work?

Cash as Prevention Works! Garrett Reacts

In this episodic storytelling series, youth homelessness prevention expert Garrett Mason breaks down how outdated systems create barriers for young adults in crisis — and why Direct Cash Transfers are a smarter, faster, cheaper, and more effective solution.

Watch all the videos below!

Many young people are seeing the American dream slip out of reach, but when it comes to homeless prevention and housing, we’ve got a solution: Direct Cash Transfers!

Episode 1

From dodging bureaucratic "monsters" to building real pathways to stability, Garrett explains why trusting young people with resources isn't just humane — it's efficient.

Episode 2

Let’s bust some myths about homelessness🚨. Garrett breaks down why “people first” should be the standard for prevention solutions.

Episode 3

When it comes to a cost-saving, effective, and human-first approach to homelessness prevention, cash assistance works!

Episode 4

Welcome to “Let’s Get Into It,” the only game show where youth WIN by being trusted. Today’s show features the stars of our Direct Cash Transfers Program: Trust, Choice, and Flexibility!

Episode 5

Direct Cash Transfers: The Proof Is in Their Stories

The data is clear: Giving young adults targeted funds for immediate housing assistance is an efficient way to prevent and end youth homelessness. What the data doesn’t show is how cash assistance changes lives. In this storytelling series, recipients of the program across the country talk about how the money and the support that came with it gave them space to rebuild relationships, support their families, and enroll in school. The recipients didn’t have to navigate the red tape associated with other assistance programs. They were entrusted with the tools they needed to find stability and opportunity.