In a recent government meeting, representatives from Family Promise and the Athens Resource Center (ARC) discussed their collaborative efforts to address homelessness and eviction prevention in the community, particularly in light of funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The meeting highlighted the challenges faced during the initial phase of the grant process, where a delay occurred between the award of funds and the commencement of assistance programs. During this time, both organizations engaged in extensive outreach to landlords and property managers, aiming to connect with those who could benefit from their eviction prevention program (EPP). They distributed flyers in neighborhoods identified as high-risk for evictions and coordinated with other nonprofits serving similar populations to maximize outreach.

Family Promise, which has operated as a homeless shelter since 2004, emphasized the importance of shifting focus upstream to prevent families from experiencing homelessness altogether. By intervening before families faced eviction, they aimed to reduce the trauma associated with housing instability and the financial burden of eviction proceedings. The organization reported that this proactive approach not only proved to be more cost-effective but also significantly less stressful for families.

The ARC's strategy complemented this by focusing on households that were one or two months behind on rent, allowing for individualized case management and support before eviction notices were filed. This approach not only alleviated the stress of eviction but also saved on legal costs associated with filing fees.

Both organizations noted the importance of accessibility in their services, transitioning from in-person court outreach to a more flexible model that included online applications and phone support. This shift was necessary due to the increasing number of individuals seeking assistance.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and collaboration among community stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of their eviction prevention efforts, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive strategies to address housing instability in the region.