According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, human beings require that their basic needs are met (food, water, shelter, sanitation, safety, belonging) in order to have the capacity to address other issues such as mental health, substance use, or housing. We must help people to survive before they can thrive. Isolation and lack of social integration are as harmful as smoking according to national and international data. The US Surgeon General recently released a national framework to address loneliness and isolation as a national crisis, and highlights these factors as key components of physical health, mental health issues and substance use disorders. Recent research shows that relationships can either precipitate or ameliorate homelessness and substance use disorders. Positive connection and hope are key components to exiting homelessness, stopping substance use, and maintaining sobriety. Furthermore, the physical health consequences of poor or insufficient connection include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults. Additionally, lacking social connection increases risk of premature death by more than 60%.

Engagement and rapport building takes time in individuals who have been harmed by systemic failures. The consistent, dependable connection created between RTB volunteers is the foundational first step towards change.