As Monroe County moves forward with the goal of ending homelessness, we have reached a point where we are serving a more chronic population suffering from serious mental illness and/or signification addictions that are more difficult to serve in a traditional setting. The complex needs of this population require staff that are trained and experienced in managing serious mental health and addiction behaviors. An atmosphere conducive to the needs of this population, i.e., non-congregate sleeping quarters, extended curfew, peer support, etc. is a necessity to encourage individuals to come in off the streets and remain in shelter while permanent housing plans are established. Special Needs Populations targeted are:
– Youth Ages 16 – 20, parenting and non-parenting
– Female Sex Offenders
– Large Families (Households of 4 or more people)
– Chronically Homeless Individuals (defined as an individual who has experienced homelessness for 12 consecutive months or 4 or more espisodes totaling 12 months
within a 3 year period)
-Individuals with significant mental health and/or substance abuse disorders
IMPORTANT – DHS will have a Q&A session at the February HSN Meeting. Wednesday, 2/16/2022 – 8:30AM – 9:30AM . Please attend and come with questions.