The Homeless Coalition began in 2006 as a workgroup of the community collaborative, a group of Executive Directors from the county’s human services agencies. They noted a rise in homeless and at-risk for homelessness in Huron County. The group was charged with determining the extent of homelessness and what services were available.
Today’s members include MDHHS, Huron ISD, HBH and dedicated community members. The group soon determined many individuals and families were challenged in maintaining their housing. It was discovered some programs weren’t being used to their fullest extent and some needs were being unmet altogether. Assisting folks in maintaining their housing is a more cost effective and socially just means of addressing the problem. When people get evicted there are court costs, moving issues, no shelters to take them, and another security deposit and first month’s rent if they get new housing. Kids are often moved to different schools, families away from support systems, doubled-up or move into unsafe situations.
What are some causes of Homelessness?
- Downturn in the economic conditions in our county
- High percentage of older homes with increased heating and maintenance costs
- Unexpected medical bills
- No homeless shelters in Huron County
Our Role today:
- To determine the needs of homeless and near-homeless individuals
- To provide Emergency Shelter and Prevention Services as possible within our financial limits (including Security Deposits, First Month Rent, Rent)
- To identify and collaborate with others in meeting the needs of homeless/near homeless individuals/families.
We receive no federal or state dollars. Funds come from private, community, corporations, and churches.
All donated funds go to direct services. Administration costs are donated or covered by specific monetary donations.
We have no paid employees; all services are provided by experienced, compassionate volunteers.