Summary:
The Unhoused Workgroup discussed various initiatives and challenges related to supporting unhoused individuals in the community. The facilitator opened the session with a light-hearted introduction, allowing attendees to share personal anecdotes. This friendly atmosphere set the stage for a productive discussion on pressing issues, particularly the operational challenges faced by the cold weather shelter at St. Aidan, which is currently in need of more volunteers to maintain its services during cold spells.
The group addressed significant barriers that unhoused individuals encounter, such as transportation and access to shelters. It was noted that many individuals prefer staying in their cars rather than utilizing shelters due to negative past experiences, especially among families. The importance of accommodating pets in shelters was highlighted as a critical factor influencing families' decisions to seek help. Additionally, the need for effective communication with families living in cars was identified, including the establishment of a new phone line to confirm shelter availability.
Efforts to provide hot meals at night were also discussed, with a shift from home-cooked meals to using Costco products to ensure consistency. The local faith community will be contacted with the opportunity to provide meals. The conversation underscored the need for coordinated communication among faith communities to enhance meal service delivery and support for unhoused individuals. It was also pointed out the importance of community awareness and partnerships with organizations like The Caring Place to provide essential items and clothing.
The group explored strategies for increasing volunteer staffing at the cold weather shelter, suggesting outreach to real estate agents and local organizations to prevent volunteer burnout. Insights from successful collaborative efforts in Skagit Valley, where local churches have worked together to address housing needs, were highlighted. The discussion concluded with a focus on improving outreach through social media and local media channels, as well as the potential for hosting an open house to engage the faith community and potential funders. The need for a dedicated facility to enhance service delivery and maintain client dignity was also emphasized, with Andrea taking on a key role in developing the resource hub with the Community Resource Center.
Chapters & Topics:
Introduction and Icebreaker Activities
The meeting opened with a welcome to attendees and an introduction of an icebreaker question regarding cozy activities for cold winter nights. This engaging activity helped foster a sense of community among the group.
Introduction
Andrea Wyatt has been hired by the Community Resource Center with the task of getting the proposed Resource Hub open and serving the Unhoused and potentially Unhoused in the Stanwood-Camano community.
Update on Cold Weather Shelter Operations
Insights on the cold weather shelter's operations, noting that staffing was a significant challenge, especially during prolonged cold periods. The shelter was able to function most of the time, but there is a need for more volunteers. Plans are underway to engage local churches and organizations to pre-assign volunteers for the upcoming winter season.
Transportation and Shelter Challenges for Unhoused Individuals
Emphasized the importance of transportation for unhoused individuals, mentioning the Snow Goose service and its limitations. Many individuals are reluctant to use shelters due to past negative experiences, leading them to seek alternative sleeping arrangements, such as cars or parks. The discussion also touched on the lack of accessible shelters for families and the barriers posed by pet policies.
Communication Strategies for Families in Need
Highlighted the difficulty of reaching out to families living in cars to inform them about cold-weather shelter openings. They mentioned the need for unaccompanied kids to have smartphones for better accessibility and noted the addition of a phone number for families to verify shelter status.Â
Collaboration for Community Meal Services
Highlighted the initiative to provide hot meals at night, moving from home-cooked meals to utilizing Costco products to meet demand. The discussion included the potential for collaboration with St. Cecilia's and other local churches to enhance outreach efforts, particularly during cold weather.Â
Collaboration and Resource Sharing for Cold Weather Shelter
Highlighted the importance of recognizing the presence of unhoused families and the efforts being made to support them. Collaborations with organizations like The Caring Place and local laundromats were mentioned as vital resources. The group also brainstormed ways to recruit volunteers from various agencies and faith communities to staff the cold weather shelter effectively.
Community Collaboration for Housing Solutions
Skagit Valley's housing initiatives include a program where churches collaborate to provide shelter for families, with transportation to various locations. Family Promise has shifted from using host homes to acquiring houses, acknowledging that many families prefer not to stay in church buildings due to previous negative experiences.Â
Strategies for Engaging the Unhoused Community
Discussed the need to identify barriers preventing unhoused individuals from accessing shelters, suggesting that past negative experiences may contribute to their reluctance. He highlighted the importance of effective communication and the role of community collaboration in improving outreach. Additionally, it was mentioned the necessity of creating a safe environment for families, particularly those with children, to alleviate their fears about group shelters.
Open House and Community Engagement Strategies
It was suggested to organize an open house to allow the faith community to see the work being done, which could help in securing funding and volunteers. He mentioned the need for better attendance numbers to strengthen grant applications and referenced resources like McKinney-Vento for data on homelessness. Additionally, he discussed the importance of community education regarding the cold weather shelter and the potential for a GoFundMe campaign.
Social Media Strategies for Cold Weather Shelter Awareness
Highlighted the successful publicity efforts of the Marysville cold shelter and offered to manage a Facebook page to improve communication and outreach. The discussion included potential collaboration with local organizations, such as the Senior Center, to recruit volunteers. The group also emphasized the need to leverage local media outlets for increased visibility and support.
Discussion on Resource Hub and Summer Meeting Plans
The question of whether the group should meet during the summer or take a break. The conversation centered on the progress of creating a resource hub.
Action Items:
Andrea will continue outreach efforts to gather community support and funding for the resource hub.
Kevin will reach out to other churches to solicit volunteers for the cold weather shelter.
St. Aidan will plan a training meeting for new volunteers to ensure they understand the process for welcoming guests at the cold weather shelter.
The group will organize an open house to showcase the cold weather shelter and its services.
Michelle will create a Facebook page for the cold weather shelter to improve communication and outreach.
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