Huron County has recently formed a task force to deal with homelessness in the county.
But CAO Meighan Wark says they also have several initiatives underway aimed at preventing homelessness in the first place.
"In terms of preventative programs, we also have, for example, our Yes I Can program, dealing with youth and offering employment and education support so that at-risk youth don't end up in a homelessness situation," said Wark.
Another notable program includes Out of the Cold, which provides emergency shelter.
Wark says they have also re-purposed several positions within county staff to help prevent homelessness.
"Those positions include a housing advocate, so someone who can speak on behalf of those who are marginalized. We have an outreach worker to work directly with the homelessness population, as well as a housing stability worker," added Wark.
Wark also points out that many of their programs would not be possible without the community partners that work with them, because homelessness is also about addiction and mental health challenges in the community. And aving them at the table going forward is absolutely crucial. She says no one agency can do it on their own.
