In 2005, CUCS created a Research and Project Evaluation Department to:

• Identify evidence-based practices suitable for implementation at CUCS programs
• Determine the effectiveness of newly introduced practices and initiatives
• Examine the needs, characteristics and preferences of populations we serve
• Assist management and staff in determining how we can continuously improve services and results
• Assist in the development of policy positions related to our mission
• Build upon our existing direct service, training and technical assistance work

To support our research efforts, CUCS maintains an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to:

• Comply with applicable laws and regulations governing human subject research
• Ensure the highest ethical standards in designing, implementing and reporting on our research activities
• Maintain the privacy and ensure the rights of research participants

Completed Projects

CUCS has completed a number of studies, including:

Street Homelessness - CUCS designed and conducted an exploratory study of the Manhattan street homeless population. 

Service Utilization in Supportive Housing - An Analysis of Long Term Shelter Stayers - CUCS conducted an analysis of contact time in the first six months following entry into CUCS' supportive housing programs for formerly homeless individuals. 

Suicide Awareness and Prevention Training for Staff - CUCS developed and implemented an agency-wide suicide awareness and prevention training and a test of related knowledge. 

Exploring the Educational Needs of Tenants in Supportive Housing Sites  - In order to better understand and meet the needs of tenants, CUCS conducted an exploratory study of tenants in three of the agency's housing sites.

Helping Persons with Mental Illness Better Manage Their Mental Illness - CUCS conducted a randomized controlled trial of the effectiveness of Illness Management and Recovery (IMR) in reducing psychiatric symptoms and facilitating recovery in supportive housing. 

For more information on completed research projects, click here.

Current Research Projects

CUCS is currently working on a number of studies, including:

• Conducting a randomized clinical trial in the New York State Correctional System of an evidence-based mental health practice known as Wellness Self Management.
• Leading the design and execution of an evaluation of the Home to Stay Program for families with repeat incidences of homelessness.
• Review the range of evidence-based substance abuse treatment models and selecting, for use within CUCS' housing programs,five specific interventions that offer the highest performance, broadest coverage, and closest fit for urban service settings serving culturally and clinically diverse, low-income populations.