Manchester Housing Authority seeks $400K to sustain Congregate Housing Support Program

The Laconia City Council meeting held on March 24, 2025, addressed critical funding issues concerning the Congregate Housing Support Program, which serves 28 residents in the community. The program, which has been operational for over a decade, aims to assist individuals, primarily older adults and those with disabilities, in remaining in their homes rather than transitioning to institutional care.

During the meeting, a representative from the Housing Authority highlighted the urgent need for $400,000 in funding, which is not included in the current state budget. This amount is essential to continue providing services that cost approximately $33,000 per month, significantly less than the costs associated with nursing homes. The representative emphasized that the program is vital for maintaining the residents' quality of life and preventing their relocation to facilities like the Belknap County Nursing Home.

The discussion also touched on broader financial concerns facing the state, with the representative arguing that New Hampshire's issues stem from a revenue problem rather than a spending problem. The phasing out of the interest and dividends tax, which previously generated $185 million for the state, has exacerbated the funding challenges for local programs.

The representative expressed a commitment to meeting with County Commissioners to raise awareness of the funding shortfall and seek potential solutions. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the impending deadline of June 30, the end of the fiscal year, by which time the funding must be secured to avoid disruption of services.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions, indicating the council's openness to further discussion on this pressing issue. The council's next steps will likely involve exploring funding options to support the Congregate Housing Support Program and ensure the well-being of its residents.