Community divided over new Flourishment Center for homeless

During a recent government meeting, community members expressed concerns regarding the proposed Flourishment Center, a new initiative aimed at addressing homelessness in Fort Bend County. The center, which is being developed by a collaborative of nine nonprofits, including Attack Poverty, aims to provide a resource hub and short-term housing for families and young adults aged 18 to 25.

Jenny Jones, the interim CEO of Attack Poverty, outlined the center's mission to offer preventative services to those on the brink of homelessness, including financial literacy courses and workforce development programs. The Flourishment Center will feature 16 housing units, specifically designated for families with minors and young adults transitioning out of foster care. Jones emphasized that the center is not a halfway house but a structured environment where residents will work on personal development plans with staff support.

Concerns were raised by local residents about the potential impact of the center on community safety and business. Some voiced fears that the center could attract individuals with criminal backgrounds or substance abuse issues. In response, Jones assured attendees that background checks would be conducted for all residents, and security measures would be in place to protect both residents and the surrounding community.

The council clarified that the Flourishment Center is a county project, funded by federal dollars, and that the city has limited authority over its development. Despite this, council members acknowledged the importance of community support for the initiative's success. A proposal was made to postpone further discussions until more information could be gathered, including examples of similar successful projects in other counties.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed and engaged as the project progresses, highlighting the need for collaboration between local government, nonprofits, and residents to address homelessness effectively.