Home More Network seeks funding to aid Bend's homeless population

The Bend Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) held a public meeting on January 15, 2025, focusing on various initiatives aimed at addressing the housing crisis in Bend, Oregon. Key discussions included grant opportunities, innovative housing solutions, and the importance of collaboration among local nonprofits.

During the meeting, committee members explored a potential project that could combine transportation and housing solutions, highlighting the need for effective measurement of project outcomes. The conversation emphasized the importance of understanding how transportation barriers affect housing access, particularly in smaller communities.

Jessica Campbell, the executive director of Home More Network, shared her personal journey from experiencing homelessness to founding a nonprofit aimed at bridging gaps in care for unhoused individuals. She reported that her organization successfully helped 16 clients secure stable housing over the past year by focusing on empowerment and personal development. Campbell stressed the need for collaboration among nonprofits to better serve the community, rather than competing for limited resources.

Home More Network is seeking $25,000 in funding to expand its outreach and support services, which include providing basic needs such as groceries and propane. Campbell explained that the funds would not go towards staffing but would be used to meet the immediate needs of unhoused individuals in Bend.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the Houseless Service Grant Program, where updates were provided on ongoing efforts to address homelessness in the area. The committee plans to continue evaluating funding opportunities and strategies to enhance housing stability for vulnerable populations in Bend.

Overall, the meeting underscored the collaborative spirit among local organizations and the commitment to finding innovative solutions to the housing crisis in Bend. The next steps will involve further deliberations on funding requests and continued engagement with community stakeholders.