Greenville Takes Steps to Address Increasing Homelessness
In Greenville, the ongoing challenge of homelessness has taken center stage as community leaders come together to tackle this complex issue. Despite the dedicated efforts of various organizations and nonprofits, the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the county has noticeably increased. According to the latest data from the S.C. Upstate Continuum of Care, around 725 people were identified as homeless in January 2024, up from 656 in January 2023. This upward trend is raising concern and prompting action among local leaders and citizens alike.
A Call for Collaboration
Meghan Barp, who leads the United Way of Greenville County, highlights a vital aspect of Greenville’s homelessness situation. She suggests that what Greenville is facing is not purely a homelessness issue but a coordination issue among the various organizations working to help those in need. “There’s an opportunity for us to do much deeper collaboration as a community to really meet the need of people experiencing homelessness right now,” she explains.
In response to this pressing need, United Way and other community organizations have launched a new community task force. The initiative was discussed during a Greenville City Council work session on September 23, showcasing a unified approach to tackling the homelessness issue head-on. Barp passionately stated, “We have this choice to make as a community. Do we want to come together and create solutions for people experiencing homelessness, or do we want to let this issue grow?”
Introducing the Community Task Force
Gathering various voices, the task force comprises leaders from nonprofits, businesses, faith-based organizations, and civic groups. Some noteworthy members include the Greenville Homeless Alliance and United Ministries. Co-chairing the task force are Carl Sobocinski, known for founding the Table 301 Restaurant Group, alongside Sean Dogan, who holds the role of community health director at Bon Secours St. Francis Health System and is a pastor at Long Branch Baptist Church.
A significant aspect of this initiative is the formation of a council consisting of individuals who have experienced homelessness, bringing invaluable insights to the table. Additionally, the task force has enlisted the help of Barb Poppe and Associates, who are guiding the development of a comprehensive action plan. Interestingly, Poppe has pointed out that Greenville is at a critical juncture and can work to get a handle on the issue before it exacerbates.
Focus Areas for Action
In their recent discussions, the consultant team suggested concentrating on six focus areas that must be addressed to effectively respond to homelessness in Greenville. With a one-year comprehensive action plan expected to roll out by late November or early December, the task force is also looking to build a three-year plan set to launch in early 2025.
Funding and Resources
One of the primary objectives of the task force is to secure additional funding to support initiatives related to homelessness. Barp notes that they are actively working to identify federal funding resources, with approximately $9 million of new funding already applied for. This financial backing will be crucial in enhancing the resources and services that Greenville can offer to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Greenville is home to a plethora of organizations dedicated to helping those in need, but the key to success may lie in improved collaboration. By enhancing communication and partnership among these groups, individuals experiencing homelessness could have a clearer path toward the services they need and ultimately secure long-term supportive housing.
The Big Picture
As Greenville’s community addresses this pressing issue, it remains essential to understand the many contributing factors leading to homelessness. It’s not just about having a roof over one’s head; a broad range of services is necessary to support individuals struggling in various aspects of their lives.
The residents of Greenville now have the opportunity to witness a significant shift in their community’s approach to homelessness. Through collaboration and focused action, there is hope that the rising numbers will begin to decline and that the voices of those affected will be heard and prioritized.
