Journal of Sociology and Social Work

Effectiveness of Service-Enriched Programs in Affordable Housing to Low Income Latino Families: It is about Quantity AND Quality.
Araque, J.C.; Vergara, A.S.

Abstract
The California Tax Credit Allocation Committee awards select financing to affordable housing developers based on an accrual of points during an annual bidding process. Project proposals which include a serviceenriched model of affordable housing amass more points, and are thereby more likely to be awarded the tax benefits. This study examines the effectiveness of the service-enriched affordable housing model in Southern California. Onsite health, nutrition, and educational programs in three low-income complexes were evaluated on the bases of effectiveness and service dosage. This longitudinal research design included both qualitative and quantitative methods and followed three sample groups corresponding to each site. Variables included participating subjects’ health, nutrition, education, and quality of life perceptions. Although crime and occupancy rates in the three complexes yielded no significant differences over a 3-year period, the data results indicate that residents receiving full-time programs (experimental group) increased health and nutritional knowledge and developed a greater sense of community than the group receiving part-time services (comparison group) and the group receiving no services (control group). Comparisons between preliminary (year 1) and final results (year 2) also suggest that cultural competency and quality of services is a determinant factor and may contribute to more favorable program outcomes.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jssw.v4n1a13