A Systematic Review of Cash Benefit Programs for People Experiencing Homelessness in the United States

Traditionally, responses to homelessness have consisted of transfers of goods and services like food, shelter, and housing vouchers. However, some people who are unhoused qualify for and receive government cash assistance. This systematic review explores existing research on outcomes associated with cash benefit programs for people experiencing homelessness in the United States. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of cash benefit programs for unhoused adults in the United States and associated outcomes. Our search of 7 databases yielded 506 articles. Ultimately, 16 articles met the inclusion criteria. The eligible articles were coded for 9 variables with results reported narratively. Eight articles explored housing outcomes, and all found that housing outcomes improved with receipt of a cash benefit program. Other articles assessed outcomes related to substance use (n=6, 38%), food security (n=2, 13%), income and economic well-being (n=2, 13%), mental health (n=1, 6%), incarceration (n=1, 6%), and quality of life (n=1, 7%), with studies reporting improvement across all targeted outcomes. Review of current evidence suggests that cash benefit programs improve housing outcomes, and increases economic well-being and quality of life, while decreasing food insecurity.