Homelessness has become a serious issue in the United States, especially in rural areas. That’s why the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded over $315 million to organizations throughout the nation to help them address homelessness in their communities.
On Wednesday, February 22, representatives from HUD came to Porter-Starke Services in Valparaiso to award them a $925,532 grant to establish the first permanent supportive housing program in Starke County. The day was the perfect opportunity for Porter-Starke Services to celebrate new friendships with HUD, reinforce its mission, and look hopefully towards a healthier Starke County.
The impact of homelessness on a person’s overall well-being is not to be taken lightly. At the meeting, Lisa Swayne, housing team leader of Porter-Starke Services, emphasized how important stable housing is and just how beneficial the grant will be for the community.
“I know firsthand how hard it is to do anything when you’re living in a tent in the woods. You can’t get mail, you lose your medication, you don’t know what time it is, so it’s difficult to set up appointments–it’s just impossible to function. Housing stability truly means everything when getting your life back on track,” said Swayne.
To receive the grant, organizations had to apply and share how the resources would help them improve their community. Porter-Starke Services applied, and HUD had no doubts that they would do amazing things.
“I want to commend Porter-Starke Services. Out of so many other communities, they were the ones we chose because of their drive and passion. Their mission was clear, the probability of their success was clear, and the improvements they’ve committed to making for their community have been highly noted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development,” said Diane M. Shelley, Midwest regional administrator of HUD.
The money Porter-Starke Services received will immediately go towards providing in-community housing for people experiencing chronic homelessness in Starke County. The first steps are already in motion.
“I can tell you at this very moment I have clients who are sleeping in tents in Starke County. This grant will go to work immediately. We already have apartments lined up–we’re ready to roll,” said Swayne.
The Porter-Starke Services team not only received enough money for housing, but they also received enough extra service dollars to go towards things like food, transportation, and furniture.
“It’s just amazing. I hope that someday I can shake Secretary Marcia Fudge’s hand and tell her what a blessing she is to go beyond and realize those things are just as important. It’s such a blessing to be able to get these people housing. I’m thankful for everything they’re doing to help the homeless here in the rural counties of Indiana, and I’m looking forward to working with them for many years to come,” said Swayne.
Many programs simply address housing issues, but Porter-Starke Services understands that getting people access to stable housing is only the first step in improving people’s quality of life. That’s why Porter-Starke Services’ program is a wrap-around program. After people receive housing, they will also get access to other opportunities such as therapy, case management, psychiatry, health services, transportation, food, legal, and clothes.
“I haven’t heard of many programs like this that are a one-stop shop. A person can come in and get everything they need all the way from housing to health, and I’m just so excited,” said Kimberly Wize, field office director of HUD.
Everyone was ultimately very grateful to have the opportunity to work together to make Starke County an even better place. People laughed, hugged, and were nearly brought to tears as they spoke about the future.
“I want to thank HUD and Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) for making this opportunity possible. We are excited to expand upon our existing services in Starke County for those experiencing homelessness,” said Matthew Burden, president and CEO of Porter-Starke Services.
It’s only a matter of time before people experiencing chronic homelessness in Starke County begin to receive the help they need to get their lives back on track. Porter-Starke Services won’t stop until everyone gets the assistance they need, and HUD is excited to see them succeed.
“To solve homelessness, we must recognize and confront the injustices that have led people to their circumstances and provide help to those who need it the most. Most importantly, we need to treat everyone with dignity and respect no matter what their circumstances are. I look forward to seeing the work that will be done here, and I can’t wait to report back about the success,” said Shelley. To learn more about Porter-Starke Services and its mission to improve people’s quality of life, visit porterstarke.org.
