Funding Cuts Would Halt Progress Helping N.J. Homeless
By Richard W. Brown and Taiisa Kelly
Since 2005, the number of chronically homeless people across the country has been cut in half. The decrease in homelessness can be attributed to bipartisan efforts to invest in permanent supportive housing.
Supportive housing improves tenants’ lives by combining affordable housing with comprehensive, voluntary services. Services help residents address mental health issues, substance use and barriers to employment. Not only are these programs game changers when it comes to individuals’ success, but also a cost-effective use of taxpayer dollars: An annual rental subsidy costs much less than emergency service interventions.
Three years ago, Cathedral Kitchen, a nonprofit in Camden, participated in the Community Planning and Advocacy Council’s (CPAC) Housing First program. Cathedral Kitchen secured rental assistance through the Shelter Plus Care program to create permanent supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals.
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