Wicomico County discusses challenges of permanent supportive housing for homeless residents

The recent budget session held by the City Council of Salisbury focused heavily on the ongoing housing crisis affecting the community, particularly in light of rising homelessness rates. Council members discussed the challenges faced by the Housing First program, which aims to provide stable housing for vulnerable populations. Currently, the program supports 11 households, with funding remaining at $95,000, the same as the previous year. This funding is crucial as it covers a portion of rent for participants, who are expected to contribute 30% of their income.

Christine Chestnut, the Housing and Home Business Manager, highlighted the difficulties in finding affordable housing, especially for seniors, who face waitlists of three years or more for available units. The council acknowledged that while they are currently assisting 11 households, there is a pressing need to expand support to additional individuals facing homelessness. However, the lack of available housing options complicates these efforts.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of federal funding cuts, which have exacerbated the housing crisis in Wicomico County. With resources dwindling, local shelters have struggled to operate at full capacity since the COVID-19 pandemic, further limiting options for those in need. Council members expressed concern over the increasing demand for assistance and the limited resources available to meet that demand.

As the council continues to navigate these challenges, there is a clear call for more effective communication about available resources and potential solutions. The meeting underscored the urgent need for innovative approaches to address the housing crisis, as well as the importance of collaboration among local agencies to find sustainable solutions for the community's most vulnerable residents. The council plans to revisit these discussions in future sessions, aiming to identify actionable steps to enhance support for those experiencing homelessness in Salisbury.