During a recent government meeting, officials highlighted the significant progress made in addressing homelessness in Lane County, attributing much of the success to innovative programs initiated by Governor Kotek. The discussion centered on the impressive outcomes achieved through a multi-agency collaborative effort, which has effectively utilized available resources to exceed established goals.
One of the standout achievements mentioned was the diversion assistance program, which assisted 676 households in the fiscal year 2023-2024—an achievement that surpasses the initial goal by 350%. This remarkable performance reflects a 218% increase from the previous year, showcasing the county's ability to implement cost-effective strategies that prevent homelessness.
Commissioners praised the collaborative work being done, noting the admiration expressed by state department heads for Lane County's approach. They emphasized the importance of not only rapidly rehousing individuals who become homeless but also implementing diversion strategies to prevent people from slipping into homelessness in the first place.
While acknowledging that the issue of homelessness is far from resolved, officials expressed pride in Lane County's proactive measures and outcomes, positioning it as a leader in the state. The meeting concluded with a call to share the success stories and strategies employed in Lane County, reinforcing the commitment to continue addressing homelessness effectively.