Key to Home initiative tackles rising homelessness in Oklahoma City

In a recent government meeting, city officials and community leaders discussed the ongoing challenges and strategies surrounding homelessness in Oklahoma City. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Key to Home partnership, which integrates public, private, and philanthropic resources to address homelessness effectively.

Aubrey, a key leader in the initiative, emphasized the importance of community involvement in tackling homelessness, stating, \"We've said several times, homelessness is a community problem, and it's only gonna be solved by the community.\" She noted that the partnership has evolved into a robust public-private collaboration since its inception in 2019, significantly enhancing the city's response to homelessness.

Jamie, the strategy implementation manager, presented the annual report, revealing a concerning 28% increase in homelessness, with 1,838 individuals counted in a recent survey. This rise is attributed to the expiration of COVID-era funding and the addition of a new winter shelter, which allowed for more accurate counting. Despite the overall increase, Jamie reported a 16% decrease in chronic unsheltered homelessness, indicating that targeted initiatives are beginning to show positive results.

The meeting also addressed the need for a more integrated approach to mental health and crisis intervention. Officials discussed the upcoming Mobile Integrated Health teams, which will provide essential medical and mental health support to individuals in crisis, particularly those experiencing homelessness. This initiative aims to prevent individuals from cycling through emergency services and instead offer them the necessary support to stabilize their situations.

Council members expressed concerns about individuals who refuse help and may pose a danger to themselves or others. The city plans to enhance outreach efforts to build rapport with these individuals, encouraging them to seek assistance when they are ready. Additionally, a new restoration center is set to open in the coming years, designed to provide immediate support for those in crisis.

The meeting concluded with a call for greater community engagement, particularly from faith leaders and local organizations, to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness. Council members emphasized the importance of collaboration and communication among all stakeholders to create a unified response to this pressing issue.