Family Promise advocates for continued funding strategy to support Lawton's homeless youth

City Council members in Lawton, Oklahoma, engaged in a critical discussion on homelessness during their recent meeting, highlighting the urgent need for effective support systems for vulnerable youth and families. The meeting, held on March 25, 2025, featured testimonies from local organizations addressing the challenges faced by homeless individuals, particularly children.

Sarah Svec, the executive director of Family Promise, emphasized the dire situation for many youth who rely on schools as their primary source of shelter and meals. She noted that upon graduation, these young individuals often face the harsh reality of homelessness, leading some to resort to crime as a means of securing basic needs. Svec reported that Family Promise assisted 789 families last year, providing critical services that help prevent homelessness and stabilize families.

A significant point of discussion was the allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Svec argued for the continuation of a strategy that divides these funds among various organizations, asserting that this approach enhances their ability to secure additional federal funding. She warned that altering this distribution could jeopardize the financial stability of multiple shelters and services in the community.

Council members acknowledged the complexity of measuring the effectiveness of these programs and the need for a clearer understanding of CDBG and other funding possibilities. The council plans to address these issues further in an upcoming meeting on April 1, where they will explore the metrics for evaluating homelessness support initiatives.

The discussions underscored the interconnectedness of local organizations in addressing homelessness and the importance of collaborative efforts to secure funding and resources. As Lawton continues to confront these challenges, the city council's decisions will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of support for its most vulnerable residents.