Evaluation of the Blue Door INNclusion Program for 2SLGBTQ+ Youth

Launched in February 2021, Blue Door’s INNclusion program offers the first population-based supportive housing program for 2SLGBTQ+ youth in York Region. Developed in response to research reporting disproportionate rates of 2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness across the Region. Results from the INNclusion program’s continued evaluation will be critical for building an evidence-based model to guide the improvement, development, and evaluation of future population-based housing programs. Currently, there is minimal understanding of how 2SLGBTQ+ youth access and utilize housing programs and whether they lead to positive outcomes for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and help them successfully exit homelessness. This project focuses on evaluating the INNclusion program to identify the needs, experiences, and perspectives of program residents and staff to determine if INNclusion is meeting youths’ needs and program objectives, and assessing and measuring a variety of variables (mental health, community participation, employment and education status) at different time points. The findings will allow us to determine the strengths and gaps of INNclusion programming, areas for improvement, and provide evidence-based recommendations to ensure that Blue Door is able to support 2SLGBTQ+ youth transition into safe, stable, and independent housing.