The stereo type of a homeless person is probably something like this: poor, unemployed, low motivation, lacking social skills, an overall underachiever. At Appleseed Community Mental Health Center we know the stereo type is a myth. Our agency has four major housing grants that help put individuals and families who are literally homeless (living in an emergency shelter, living on the streets or living in a place not meant for human habitation), back into stable housing. We know that anything from a relationship breakup, to a sudden decrease in income, health problems, or a series of unfortunate events can all lead someone to be without housing. Our agency is able to offer individuals and families the kind of supports they need to get back on track. Appleseed offers rental assistance, case management, supported employment, counseling, psychiatry, and crisis services to help put people back into housing, help them manage and move forward in life.
In order to receive the funding necessary to provide the housing services offered in Ashland County, the federal government requires every community in the United States to count its homeless. This is done on the same day, at the same time, across the country. It is known as the Point-in-Time Count. This year the count occurs at 8:00pm January 24 to 6:00am January 25th 2017. This is a very important count which drives the funding for housing and the allocation of money to specific areas of the country. HUD uses this 10 hour period as a determination for how successful programs have been in addressing their homeless population’s needs, as well as what the current need may be that compel HUD to continue with or approve new funding for housing the homeless. Ashland County is part of Region 4 which is comprised of Wayne, Medina, Lorain, and our county. Region 4 has been very successful in applying for and being awarded grant funding to assist the homeless in our area.
If you are aware of any individuals in Ashland County, who meet the definition of literally homeless, between 8:00pm January 24 to 6:00am January 25th, 2017; please call 419-281-3716, ask for Karen Carroll (Appleseed Housing Coordinator), and leave a message with their information.
Thank you,
Jerry Strausbaugh EdD LPCCS
Executive Director Appleseed CMHC
Secretary, Ashland County Homeless Coalition.
