Lighthouse Requests Oakland County Funding for Social Services and Housing Support

In the heart of Oakland County, a gathering of local leaders and advocates unfolded at the Board Meeting on August 14, 2025, where pressing issues surrounding social services and community support took center stage. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as representatives from Lighthouse, a multifaceted social service agency, presented a compelling case for increased funding to bolster their efforts in aiding the county's most vulnerable residents.

Lighthouse, headquartered in Pontiac, reported serving over 20,000 individuals last year, including hundreds of children in their family and youth shelters. During the peak of the pandemic, their reach expanded dramatically, assisting over 30,000 residents across various communities, from Royal Oak Township to Holly and Wixom. As the meeting progressed, Lighthouse representatives urged the county to allocate surplus funds to enhance investments in local social service organizations. Their request emphasized the critical need for resources to recruit and retain qualified staff, essential for providing stable housing and supportive services to those at risk of homelessness.

The discussion highlighted the importance of expanding the housing trust fund, enabling residents to secure accessible housing without the burden of multiple jobs or the disruption of their children's education. With federal funding uncertainties looming, Lighthouse's call for increased county resources resonated deeply, as they aim to ensure that their services remain robust and effective.

Following Lighthouse's presentation, State Representative Donnie Steele took the floor, expressing concerns about various county issues, including tax increases and the dismantling of essential departments. Steele's remarks reflected a growing unease among community members regarding local governance and resource allocation. He pointed out potential conflicts of interest and questioned the necessity of a new satellite office in Pontiac, given the existing unused space in the county.

As the meeting continued, William Rising, a board member of Hope Shelter, echoed the sentiments of his fellow advocates, stressing the integral role shelters play in providing hope and support to the community's most vulnerable. His experience underscored the urgent need for additional funding to sustain these vital services.

The discussions at the Oakland County Board Meeting painted a vivid picture of a community grappling with the challenges of social service provision amidst economic uncertainties. As advocates rallied for increased support, the future of local social services hung in the balance, with the potential for significant investments that could reshape the landscape of assistance for those in need. The meeting concluded with a sense of determination, leaving attendees hopeful for a collaborative approach to addressing the pressing needs of Oakland County's residents.