Asheville secures $1.9M for homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing programs

Buncombe County is set to enhance its homelessness prevention efforts following significant funding updates shared during the recent Board of Commissioners meeting. Two local providers, HelpMate and Homeward Bound, have been awarded a total of $559,500 in state funding aimed at disaster response and homelessness prevention.

The funding comes from a second round of Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funding, which is specifically designated for areas affected by recent storms. HelpMate received $75,000 for homelessness prevention activities, while Homeward Bound secured $484,500 for rapid rehousing and support for their Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).

In addition to these awards, Buncombe County will participate in a national pilot program called "Right at Home," which focuses on homelessness prevention strategies. The Continuum of Care (COC) board approved participation in this initiative, leading to a planning grant of $275,000 for project development over the next 6 to 12 months. A dedicated work group will collaborate with a project manager from the city's homeless strategy division to create a comprehensive homelessness prevention system, with potential funding for a three-year implementation period.

The county has also submitted applications for additional ESG funding for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, totaling $139,533. HelpMate and Homeward Bound are the primary applicants, with requests aimed at emergency shelter and rapid rehousing services. The COC funding committee has recommended additional support for HelpMate's programs due to Homeward Bound reaching capacity with its current funding.

Furthermore, Buncombe County has applied for a $270,000 collaboration and innovation grant from Dogwood Health Trust to develop diversion services that prevent individuals from entering the homeless system. An additional $35,000 capacity-building grant has also been requested to implement a compensation plan for individuals with lived experience of homelessness.

These funding initiatives represent a significant step forward in addressing homelessness in Buncombe County, highlighting the community's commitment to enhancing support systems and preventing homelessness before it occurs. The next board meeting will be held virtually, continuing the county's efforts to engage with the community on these critical issues.