The Board of County Commissioners meeting held on January 14, 2025, focused on addressing the escalating homelessness crisis in Washington County, Maryland. The meeting featured presentations from local leaders, including Jeannie Asbury, the executive director of Reach and chair of the Local Homeless Coalition, who highlighted alarming statistics regarding homelessness in the area.

Asbury reported a staggering 340% increase in homelessness since 2021, with over 600 school-age children currently without stable housing. Many families are living in tents, garages, or cars, often facing eviction despite holding stable jobs. She emphasized that this situation represents a humanitarian crisis that threatens the future of the community.

In response to this crisis, Asbury introduced the "Hope for Home" program, an initiative aimed at providing stable housing and support for families in need. The program focuses on long-term solutions, offering 12-month leases and wraparound services, including financial literacy and tenant rights education. The initiative aims to reduce childhood homelessness, create stable housing opportunities, and improve educational outcomes for children.

Dr. Mark Sewell, the continuum of care lead for the county, further elaborated on the program's goals, emphasizing the importance of case management and child-centered support. He noted that the program seeks $300,000 annually from the community reinvestment and repair fund to support its initiatives.

Carrie Johnson, executive director of the Washington County Mental Health Authority, provided insights into the existing Continuum of Care Rental Assistance Program, which has been operational for over 20 years. This program assists individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly those with serious mental illnesses and criminal backgrounds. Johnson highlighted the program's success, noting that many participants have maintained stable housing for over five years.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the commissioners to consider the proposed funding and support for the "Hope for Home" program, recognizing the urgent need for effective solutions to combat homelessness in Washington County. The discussions underscored a collaborative effort among local agencies to address this pressing social issue and improve the lives of families in the community.