In a recent government meeting, officials reported significant increases in family assistance and homelessness, alongside a notable decrease in Medicaid cases. In July 2024, family assistance cases rose to 1,384, marking an increase of 252 cases compared to the same period in 2023. The safety net program also saw a rise, with 31 more cases than at the end of 2023 and 102 more than July 2023.

The meeting highlighted a concerning trend in homelessness, with emergency housing placements for families averaging 20.2 and singles at 46.6, compared to last year's averages of 15.6 and 38.8, respectively. The number of families residing in hotels and motels has surged, with July 2024 reporting 110 families and 125 singles, a stark increase from 68 families and 19 singles in July 2023.

Despite the rising need for assistance, Medicaid cases have decreased significantly. In July 2024, there were 20,666 locally managed Medicaid cases, down 1,104 from the previous year. This decline is attributed to the end of the public health emergency, which previously allowed individuals to maintain their Medicaid coverage without recertification.

Officials expressed concern over the juxtaposition of increasing homelessness and decreasing Medicaid enrollment, suggesting that many individuals may no longer meet eligibility requirements or have found alternative insurance. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address these challenges and explore funding opportunities to support affected families.