AI Tool Helps Address Racial Bias in Homeless Housing Placement

USC researchers have developed an artificial intelligence tool aimed at increasing the number of people exiting homelessness and reducing racial bias in homeless services. The tool is part of a three-year collaborative project with the California Policy Lab at UCLA and the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). LAHSA sought the project to address concerns about racial bias in housing placements and other homeless services. The researchers recommend using AI combined with social science expertise to ensure fair and equitable practices in risk assessments and housing placements. By using a triage tool that assesses clients’ needs and vulnerability, the researchers were able to identify the most accurate predictors of future adverse events and improve the fairness, efficiency, and transparency of the system. The tool also aims to reduce client stress during the intake process and increase the capture of accurate information about clients’ vulnerability and needs. The researchers worked closely with a community advisory board, including formerly homeless individuals, frontline case managers, and resource matchers, to ensure the model was sensitive to the experiences of trauma and racism. The project’s success has led to plans to develop similar models for homeless services in Missouri and Washington. The researchers hope that their work will contribute to a more equitable and community-driven approach to addressing homelessness, regardless of individuals’ backgrounds.