Aiken homelessness coalition chair urges centralized resource center; credits Salvation Army survey

Mary Anton, chair of the Aiken County Homeless Coalition, told the Aiken City Council during public comment on March 23 that rising housing costs, higher food prices and recent increases in gasoline have accelerated homelessness and housing instability in the area.

Anton praised local Salvation Army leadership — Captains Michael and Malleica Good, she said — and described a survey and data study the organization conducted to evaluate needs and possible solutions. According to Anton, the study concluded the community needs a centralized resource center to serve people who are homeless or at risk, emphasizing homeless prevention programs and services that help clients move toward stable housing.

Anton said the survey would not have been possible without a 2024 city award; the transcript uses an unclear phrase when naming that award. She asked residents to stay informed as details unfold and invited the public to a Homeless Coalition meeting the following Friday to hear more about next steps.

Anton asked the council and community to support the Salvation Army and other partners by volunteering and by inviting local leaders to speak to civic groups, churches and neighborhood organizations. No formal council action, funding decision or staff direction on the centralized resource center is recorded in the portion of the transcript provided.

The coalition chair’s remarks framed the project as a collaborative, multi-sector effort and signaled forthcoming community engagement as more details are developed.