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Residents and local ministries describe growing homelessness and partnerships in Aiken
Summary
During public comment, volunteers and local pastors described outreach efforts to house people experiencing homelessness, announced a health-care event on Aug. 3, and requested volunteer support and coordination with city services and nonprofits.
Several residents and nonprofit volunteers addressed the council during the public comment period about homelessness and outreach work in Aiken.
Diane Lenz introduced herself as a volunteer and donor liaison with C4 Impact and said the program uses an "on-ramp, bridge, landing" model to move people into permanent housing and provides long-term follow-up. She said C4 Impact is recruiting volunteers and holding a fundraiser to raise down-payment funds and to replace a van used to transport clients.
Kirk Johnson, pastor of Lost Sheep Ministries, described local outreach successes, urged residents to call his team when they encounter people in need, and highlighted collaboration with city police, public defenders and judges. City staff announced a healthcare event for people experiencing homelessness scheduled for Aug. 3 at 995 Clyburn Place, with screenings and nonprofit vendors expected to participate.
Lex Perry, pastor of C4 Impact, said the organization opened another house (their sixth location), which will add three spaces to their on-ramp program, and reiterated that the group seeks partnerships and resources, including transportation.
No formal council action was taken on public-comment items, though staff and council acknowledged the ongoing nonprofit efforts and upcoming services event.
