Sullivan County DSS Expands Shelter Support and Staffing for Community Services

Sullivan County officials are taking significant steps to address pressing community needs, particularly in housing and youth services, as discussed in a recent Health & Human Services meeting.

A major highlight from the meeting was the announcement of increased shelter allowances for individuals receiving public assistance. The state has approved a substantial increase in the maximum shelter supplement, raising it from $335 to $1,039 per month for eligible individuals. This change, which advocates have pushed for years, aims to alleviate the ongoing housing crisis affecting many residents. However, it is important to note that this increase applies only to those already on public assistance, leaving many others still reliant on county rental supplement funds.

In addition to housing support, the county is making strides in youth services. With new staffing approvals, the Department of Social Services (DSS) is now able to provide direct liaisons to local school districts. This initiative, which has not been possible since at least 2009, aims to enhance support for children and streamline communication between schools and social services. Schools such as BOCES and Fallsburg have already engaged with this program, with others like Liberty and Monticello considering similar partnerships.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing challenges of substance use in the community. Overdose statistics for July indicated a slight increase in incidents, with 19 reported cases. While opioid-related overdoses remain a concern, officials noted a rise in alcohol-related incidents as well. Collaborative efforts are underway to improve treatment options, including the anticipated opening of sober living beds and the establishment of a new clinic in Highland to enhance access to primary care services.

Looking ahead, the county plans to utilize opioid settlement funds to support various initiatives, including a restart program for teens facing substance use challenges. This program, previously managed by Catholic Charities, is now being continued by Sullivan BOCES with additional funding secured for the upcoming school year.

As Sullivan County navigates these critical issues, the focus remains on fostering healthy communities and ensuring that residents have access to the necessary resources and support systems. The outcomes of these discussions reflect a commitment to addressing the needs of the community and improving the quality of life for all residents.