The initiative highlights the need  for framing of application process as a collaborative, multilevel effort between communities to aid their most vulnerable members, as opposed to an isolated, individual effort. This will also allow for recovery from chronic homelessness.

Takeaways from SOAR Initiative

Comparing SSI/SSDI application allowance rates between pre- and post-SOAR assistance (32% and 73%), the SOAR Program significantly increased access to benefits for adults with disabilities who are homeless or at risk for homelessness. The average length of time of approval also decreased (from 120 to 90 days).

University of Notre Dame

- Of the 37 states chosen for the study, 37 report that of the 8,978 people who applied for SSI/SSDI benefits, 6,558 of initial applicants were approved (approval rate of 73%). 
- Average time of approval was 91 days.
- Data on individual and systemic outcomes show positive trends, such as the ability of the program to reach those who are chronically homeless.
- Ten states report 81% of applicants were housed by the time their benefits were approved.
- In areas with the highest allowance rates, case managers reported using the SSA-1696 Appointment of Representative form, which allows them to correspond with the SSA and act on the applicant’s behalf.

Results of Research on SOAR Effectiveness

Dennis, D., Lassiter, M., Connelly, W. H., & Lupfer, K. S. (2011). Helping adults who are homeless gain disability benefits: The SSI/SSDI outreach, access, and recovery (SOAR) program. Psychiatric Services, 62(11), 1373–1376. https://doi.org/10.1176/ps.62.11.pss6211_1373

Helping Adults Who Are Homeless Gain Disability Benefits: The SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) Program

Eleven states report notable savings through Medicaid or federal reimbursement to their general assistance programs, with cost savings being as high as $500,000 in a couple of years. Some states were able to collaborated with hospitals for easy access to medical records and assessments to the help with SOAR programs.

SOAR Effectiveness on Medicare and Healthcare Systems

Comparing Pre- and Post-SOAR Assistance

It is difficult to show definitive comparisons on how those applicants assisted by SOAR differ from those who did not receive assistance. Further research could help identify how each specific SOAR component helped contribute to higher allowance rates.

Learn Before

Related

Learn After