During a recent government meeting, Megan Bark, President and CEO of United Way, highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive plan to address homelessness in Greenville. As awareness of homelessness in the area grows, Bark emphasized the importance of collaboration among local nonprofits and community leaders to effectively tackle the issue.

Bark outlined a strategic approach that focuses on preventing homelessness and ensuring that it is a rare and brief experience for those affected. Since May, a dedicated task force has been formed, comprising leaders from various sectors, including business, faith, and nonprofit organizations. This group aims to create a robust plan that will be developed with the assistance of national expert Barb Poppe, who has extensive experience in addressing homelessness at a national level.

The initiative will involve several phases, with a timeline extending through December. Key milestones include the approval of a one-year plan in October, the launch of the plan in November, and the adoption of a three-year strategy by December. The task force has already engaged with individuals who have experienced homelessness to gain insights into their needs and challenges.

Bark identified six preliminary areas of focus for the plan, including the establishment of a joint command center to coordinate resources and services, improved funding for permanent supportive housing, and the creation of a high-quality navigation center to assist individuals in accessing necessary services. Additionally, there will be efforts to enhance public awareness and change the narrative surrounding homelessness, build the capacity of nonprofit organizations, and implement effective data collection to measure progress.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to addressing homelessness in Greenville through coordinated efforts and strategic planning, aiming to create a supportive environment for all community members.