Tuesday, June 18, 2013, the Roanoke Times
Four individuals and one family are now appropriately housed and out of a shelter thanks to a concentrated effort by the Salvation Army, Rebuilding Together Roanoke, and the Community Housing Resource Center of Council of Community Services. Working collaboratively, they have filled two completely renovated Rebuilding Together houses in Roanoke.
Through a Homeless Solutions Grant, clients ranging in age from 1 to 57 years old have been given an opportunity to get back on their feet. The HSG fund provided security deposits and the first month’s rent on housing that passed habitability and lead-based-paint inspections. Rental subsidy for two months is also provided.
The collaborative effort began when the Community Housing Resource Center asked shelters for referrals for those homeless who were ready to be housed and would meet the grant requirements. CHRC works with several shelters successfully; this is just one example of partnerships that have had positive results.
In these cases, the Salvation Army was able to combine interests of individuals seeking roommates and refer them as household units. CHRC then took their applications and finalized housing plans. Rebuilding Together is now landlord to this group of eight people, while CHRC and the Salvation Army continue case management for up to a year.
CHRC is seeking partner landlords.
HEATHER BRUSH Housing coordinator Community Housing Resource Center ROANOKE