Our Plan to End Homelessness

October 7, 2008

by Commissioner Jeff Koons

As chairman of the Palm Beach County Homeless Advisory Board, I am happy to report the county’s new Ten-Year Plan to End Homelessness has been unanimously adopted by the Board of County Commissioners. This 89-page document represents an 18-month collective effort by a dedicated group of individuals representing government, business, faith and community-based organizations, service providers and community advocates.

The plan will become the framework for policies and programs addressing the issue of homelessness in our community. It spells out in detail how we can meet the needs of those who are at imminent risk of becoming homeless and provide assistance to individuals and families who no longer have a roof over their heads.

The programs and services we’ve adopted have proven effective both on the local and national level. Best practice models from across the country will be utilized and their outcomes monitored to ensure effective performance.

One question that must be asked is where will we get the money to end homelessness?  While grants and fund raising will play a significant role, local resources, both private and public, must be reviewed to ensure that every penny is being fully utilized. Dedicated funding sources for homeless and other critical social services have been established in many communities, and all must be considered as we implement the plan. This means some hard decisions and sacrifices will have to be made along the way. No one said this will be an easy process, but it is one I feel we absolutely must undertake.

If you would like to review the 10-year plan, please go to the Palm Beach County Community Services' Web site (pbcgov.com/communityservices) and click on the link on the left side. I hope you will take the time to read this plan and commit to it in your own way. There is something each and every one of us can do to help. If you would like to volunteer your time, please contact one or more of the following agencies:           

• Adopt a Family of the Palm Beaches, 561-253-1361            
• The Lord’s Place, 561-494-0125            
• Center for Family Services, 561-616-1258            
• Families First, 561-721-2887            
• Transitions Home (Children’s Home Society), 561-317-2173            
• Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse, 561-265-3797 ext. 10            
• Center of Hope (Salvation Army), 561-686-3530 ext 310            
• Harmony House West (YWCA), 561-640-0050            
• Project Success (Gulfstream Goodwill), 561-848-7200
  

The citizens of Palm Beach County have many unique talents and a generous spirit that is second to none. I ask each of you to come forward and share them with the rest of the community. Together, I know we can succeed in reaching our ultimate goal -- to one day be able to say: "Homelessness doesn’t live here anymore." Let’s get started!

As always, I welcome your comments and questions. Feel free to contact me or my staff at 355-2202.