Oakland County Advocates Demand Funding for Homeless Shelters Amid Rising Needs

During the recent Oakland County Board Meeting, pressing concerns regarding homelessness in the community took center stage, highlighting the urgent need for increased support for local shelters. Carolyn Robiodek, manager of Hope Shelters, addressed the board, revealing that Oakland County currently has only two year-round shelters, which are struggling to meet the needs of approximately 1,300 homeless individuals in the area.

Robiodek emphasized the critical role of shelters in providing not just a roof over heads, but also access to housing resources and case management. She shared that last year, Hope Shelters assisted around 400 individuals, successfully housing about 200 of them. However, she noted that many staff members at Hope Shelters hold second jobs to afford living in the county, underscoring the financial strain on both employees and the organization itself.

The winter months pose an additional challenge, as Robiodek warned of a lack of funding for winter sheltering, which could leave vulnerable individuals exposed to harsh conditions. She urged the board to consider increased funding to support local shelters, stating, “We will not have winter sheltering at hotelings because we have lack of funding.”

Bella Levitt, director of data quality at Hope Shelters, echoed these sentiments, reporting that the shelter has already seen 366 guests this year, with numbers expected to rise as colder weather approaches. She highlighted the ongoing issue of capacity, noting that they often have to turn away individuals seeking help. Levitt mentioned plans for a new shelter, which could alleviate some of the pressure, but emphasized that sustainable funding and support are essential for its success.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing recognition of the homelessness crisis in Oakland County and the need for collaborative efforts to address it. As the board considers the requests for support, the community watches closely, hopeful for solutions that will provide relief to those in need and foster a more inclusive environment for all residents.