INDIANAPOLIS — The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded nearly $12 million to help the City of Indianapolis and local partners address homelessness.
Since 2016, the Circle City has been committed to a housing-first mindset.
“It’s not housing only. It’s then, let’s walk together alongside one another and work on whatever may then be contributing to that long-term stability,” said Chelsea Haring-Cozzi, executive director for the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention, or CHIP.
This is why the Continuum of Care funding is nearly a 20% increase from last year and a 170% increase from when they first declared this approach in 2016.
“One of the primary reasons we were selected for this enhanced federal support was the decrease in overall homelessness recorded in Indianapolis for 2023,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett.
Another factor is a reduction of first-time homelessness across the board.
Using this award, over 15 different organizations will begin projects to support over 2,800 individuals a year.
“The additional funds will provide rental assistance to 22 youths that are experiencing chronic homelessness and 12 individuals who are fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence,” said Jennifer Greene, executive director of Partners in Housing.
HUD also grants bonuses to areas making an impact on homelessness for a specific subpopulation, such as those suffering from or attempting to escape domestic violence.
Damien Center is one of this year’s recipients.
“The prices go up, and the need goes up,” said Alan Witchey, who serves as the president and CEO of Damien Center. “We’re seeing more and more people with housing crises, who need support and assistance than ever before.”
The organization is hoping to expand its services with its current facility soon to be transformed into a housing center.
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