BRATTLEBORO — Morningside Shelter has landed a $10,000 grant from the Entergy Charitable Foundation in support of its Housing Support Case Management services, funds which will benefit more than 40 local households this year.
According to the most recent U.S. Census data, of Windham County's roughly 44,000 residents, 10.7 percent - some 4,800 people - live in poverty. Many work in low-paying jobs and lack the resources to weather unexpected or unplanned expenses that can lead to homelessness.
In announcing the grant, Morningside said its Housing Support Case Management program helps clients assess their needs, goals, and resources, and connects them with available housing assistance programs.
Case managers work with clients to identify areas of focus for goals in housing, mental and physical health, income, and parenting. The program also supports individuals and families transiting back into housing after one or more periods of homelessness.
Case managers meet weekly with clients in their homes to help keep them away from the threat of homelessness.
According to Josh Davis, Morningside's executive director, in a news release, “the housing subsidy vouchers in our area have unfunded case management mandates.”
“In order to obtain and maintain their housing, our clients are required to receive case management, for which we must raise the necessary funds in order to provide. This program keeps people housed, which is the end-goal for preventing homelessness,” he said.
Davis explained that, last year, Morningside's Housing Support case managers worked with 39 households to foster independence. They served as coach, therapist, substance abuse recovery support, mentor, and accountability partner.
Client issues included finances, landlord communication, conflict mediation, education, parenting, and health care.