During a recent government meeting in Montpelier, community leaders and residents expressed a strong desire to address local homelessness issues, highlighting the significant volunteer efforts and the need for enhanced collaboration with federal housing authorities.

Pastor Jay Voorhees of Trinity United Methodist Church emphasized the importance of partnerships between faith communities and government agencies, citing his experience in Nashville where a mobile housing navigation center successfully transitioned individuals into permanent housing. He raised concerns about the current level of engagement with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and called for a more proactive approach to secure federal support for local housing initiatives.

In response, city officials acknowledged their existing relationship with HUD and the challenges faced by shelters and volunteers in accommodating the complex needs of the homeless population. They expressed willingness to explore further collaboration with community organizations.

Meredith Warner, interim co-chair of the homelessness task force and deputy director at Good Samaritan Haven, presented a memo to the city council advocating for the reinstatement of the motel program to pre-July 2024 levels. This request aims to provide temporary shelter for vulnerable individuals while a sustainable long-term plan is developed. Warner highlighted the financial pressures on the council due to recent flooding and urged for the restoration of previous funding levels to support homelessness initiatives.

The task force is also advocating for a shift in approach from public safety to public health, proposing street outreach programs and collaborations with healthcare partners to address substance use and mental health issues among the homeless population. The meeting underscored a collective commitment from community members and leaders to find effective solutions to homelessness in Montpelier.