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Released 29 September 2009
Kansas City, MO -- The Salvation Army announces today it is refocusing its homeless assistance program in the Northland effective October 5, 2009.
The program shift moves away from the short-term emergency shelter focus of the past few years to an emphasis on prevention and transitional housing to meet the needs of Northland residents.
The Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program will provide financial assistance and services to prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless and help those who are experiencing homelessness to be quickly re-housed and stabilized. Those entering the program must meet certain guidelines and will agree to intensive case management and budgeting requirements as a part of their eligibility.
"This program shift is the result of months of study on how to best utilize community resources to meet community needs," said Major Jeffrey Smith, divisional commander of The Salvation Army, Kansas and Western Missouri Division. "It enables us to target both the homeless population and the larger population of residents at risk of homelessness with more resources focused directly at the most pressing needs."
The new program is funded through Federal Stimulus Funds. The HPRP funds were awarded to The Salvation Army by the City of Kansas City, Missouri in the amount of $374,554 and from Clay County, Missouri with $325,323. These funds will serve Kansas City and non-Kansas City residents in Clay County.
"The change and approach to dealing with homelessness as outlined in this new program appears to be an aggressive manner in dealing with this critical issue," said Parkville Mayor Gerry Richardson. "Solving individual problems of homelessness is better than providing stop-gap solutions."
Dr. Michael W. Lowe, The Salvation Army Northland Advisory Council Chair said The Salvation Army is uniquely qualified to address the concerns of the homeless. "With the economic downturn and unemployment that has impacted our nation, the citizens in the Northland have been affected in significant ways. With grants from the City of Kansas City and Clay County, The Salvation Army will be able to assist families and individuals prior to their becoming homeless."
Longtime Northland resident Anita Gorman also commented on the new program. "The Salvation Army is known for its service to people in times of personal crisis. It is also known for its professional approach in delivering its services to those most in need, "said Anita Gorman, a member of The Salvation Army's Metro Advisory Board. "I believe a prevention program designed to solve family and individual financial crisis that can lead to homeless situations is the best model in today's economic environment."
Individuals who wish to apply for assistance through the new program should contact The Salvation Army located at 5306 N. Oak or by calling 816-452-5663.