The Auburn/Cayuga Homeless Task Force has been a constant support for individuals in need of housing. The Task Force has coordinated Point in Time Counts, collected data, and prepared the Auburn/ Cayuga County Continuum of Care (C of C) application which has brought new funding into the community for homeless services. For many individuals, finding affordable, appropriate shelter can be very difficult. Housing, especially handicap accessible housing, can be almost impossible to find. Subsidized units have long waiting lists and strict qualifications individuals need to meet in order to qualify for a unit.

Homelessness is an ongoing problem throughout the country. Millions of dollars are spent each year to help individuals find and maintain housing. Programs which may include case management have been able to find housing, employment, benefits, health care, and the stability needed to maintain self sufficiency for long term success.

There is no one reason for the cause of losing a home. Many factors leave individuals vulnerable to homelessness. Low income housing has substantially declined in many cities and waiting lists for public housing can be many years. Revolving treatments for individuals with mental health needs, substance/ chemical dependency, and an increased rate of domestic violence have been noted as problems leading to the inability to find and maintain housing. Older cities and towns lack affordable, appropriate, safe housing. Individuals are living in condemned, unsanitary units. Many of these “causes” can send individuals and families into a downward spiral causing the loss of a home, family support or treatment plans.

Poverty is invariably linked to homelessness. For many individuals, becoming homeless is often just a paycheck away from living on the streets. Areas where housing expenses are on the rise, an individual would have to work well over 40 hours a week to afford a one bedroom apartment on minimum wage. Most jobs leave families living below the poverty line.

Our community has shown great support in helping homeless individuals find housing, shelter, and basic amenities such as food and clothing. The most recent community member to step forward is Holy Family. Their homeless shelter, Chapel House, has been providing refuge for individual males in need of a place to sleep. Dedicated volunteers continue to work the shelter with no money, only donations. Local restaurants, bakeries and community members have been donating time, food, and supplies to help the local homeless effort.

Local agencies, organizations, and volunteers are determined to make an impact for those in need of housing. Overwhelming amounts of support from area businesses and community members have been greatly appreciated. Those who have or will be contributing should know their efforts have made a difference in many lives.

Quote of the Week:

“One generation plants the tress; another gets the shade.”

- Chinese Proverb

Amanda Derby is the housing advocate for Options for Independence. She can be reached at 255-3447.