Topeka to use ‘Built for Zero’ model to help end homelessness

TOPEKA ( KSNT ) – The Capital city is looking at an additional approach to combat homelessness. It’s called the Built For Zero model and it was discussed at city council Tuesday, Aug. 13.

Brought to the state by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), this model looks to end homelessness rather than manage it.

With a four-phase approach, the City is taking its equity access shelter program, which was based off the the built for zero model and turning it into full built for zero model.

“One of our first steps is looking at our data, creating a by name list, really getting that data that’s updates in real time, we’ll create a single integrated team that all works together to not only gather that data but then work with those individuals to help get them housed and move them through the process,” Topeka Housing Services Division Director Carrie Higgins said.

While the City is going forward with this approach, this does not mean they are parting ways with Sylver Consulting, an outside organization that was brought in my by former Topeka City Manager Stephen Wade. Built for Zero will rather use programs like the homeless innovation group and use their ideas and build that into its framework.

Higgens told 27 News the City has looked at this model for a few years now, and that its proven success across the country makes them excited to go forward with it.

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