o Chronic homelessness has declined since 2005, but the number of homeless families increased for the second year in a row, almost certainly because of the recession, according to Housing and Urban Development officials.
About $860,000 in federal grant money is headed to programs that serve homeless people in Clark County.
The money was awarded Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The funding is renewed annually and this year’s allocation will help continue nine programs that serve and house homeless people.
“They are permanent housing projects in which people already live,” said Craig Lyons, executive director of the local Council for the Homeless.
That means the money won’t generate additional resources that could reduce the waiting lists of people who need help.
Except for two veterans.
“There is a slight increase in one program,” Lyons said. “It’s the Shelter Plus Care program we use to house veterans. Now 20 people will be able to occupy the resource instead of 18.”
Lyons said the local agency also is hoping to receive a $57,000 bonus in March that is awarded on the basis of community performance.
The money awarded Wednesday will go to:
Homeless Management Information System, $72,697; New Dreams, $122,414; Operation Homestretch, $83,229; Orchard Glen, $34,429; Share Outreach, $61,267; Shelter Plus Care, $137,664; Story Street, $164,101; The Way Home, $91,700; Wise Moves, $92,365.
The majority of those served by the programs “are people with severe disabilities,” Lyons said. “Our most vulnerable populations.”
Some recipients also get assistance from a case manager. Some might get additional services for mental health issues, physical disabilities, long-term care needs and domestic violence support.
The local grants were part of $37.7 million awarded to 68 groups, organizations and agencies in Washington.
While these grants are part of an annual renewal process, it is particularly reassuring to see federal money on the way because of expected state budget cuts.
“No question: It adds a certain element of stability,” Lyons said.
