Phoenix, AZ – July 26, 2017 – The fight against homelessness got a new injection of money and support today from the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. The Board approved nine contracts that support regional solutions for homelessness. The contracts, worth $1.3 million, will fund programs that offer rapid re-housing and support services as well as emergency shelter.
“By coordinating these services with dedicated and experienced local partners, Maricopa County has positioned itself as a regional leader on this complex issue,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Denny Barney, District 1.
The challenges of homelessness require an understanding of the relationships between available and affordable housing, mental health, the justice system, and support services. “Maricopa County is developing linkages between programs using proven approaches to provide solutions,” said Bruce Liggett, Director of the Maricopa County Human Services Department.
The six new contracts recognize the need for homeless services outside of the downtown Phoenix area. These contracts will provide housing for approximately 50 individuals and, in the coming year, shelter for over 1,700 individuals. Shelter providers also assist with housing placements. These contracts leverage new and existing fund sources in innovative ways, working with local communities and non-profits to find solutions that make sense for each area.
- A New Leaf will provide shelter services to single adults in the East Valley.
- Circle the City will provide medical respite and shelter to single adults in the East and West Valley.
- Native American Connections will offer youth shelter, as well as rapid re-housing services in the East and West Valley, with a priority for referrals from the county’s Correctional Health Services.
- AZCEND (formerly Chandler Christian) will offer rapid re-housing services in the East Valley.
- Lutheran Social Services will provide shelter services with other local faith organizations in the East and West Valley.
- Community Bridges, Inc. will provide rapid re-housing services outside the City of Phoenix, with a priority for referrals from the county’s Correctional Health Services.
Three of the nine contracts will receive continued funding, reflecting the county’s commitment to current homeless services offered at the Human Services Campus in Phoenix. St. Vincent de Paul and Lodestar Day Resource Center will provide temporary shelter and supportive services. CASS will provide ongoing shelter with an increased emphasis on outcomes and pay for performance.
The Housing and Community Development Division of Maricopa County’s Human Services Department will coordinate and oversee the contracts.