Commissioner Cabell discusses Oakland's housing assistance and funding challenges

In a recent meeting of the Public Health and Safety Committee in Oakland County, officials discussed ongoing challenges in providing housing assistance to residents facing financial difficulties. The committee highlighted the importance of addressing the needs of individuals whose incomes are insufficient to cover rising rental costs, a situation that has become increasingly common.

One significant point raised was the allocation of $77,000 in Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus (CDBG CV) funding aimed at assisting those with higher area median incomes. This funding is crucial for individuals struggling to maintain their housing, particularly as rents continue to escalate. The committee emphasized the need for proactive measures to support residents before they reach the judgment stage in eviction proceedings, as many individuals are falling through the cracks in the current system.

A specific case was presented during the meeting, illustrating the difficulties faced by residents like Jane, a disabled individual with no income who is at risk of eviction. The committee acknowledged that while they are able to assist some residents, the number of individuals needing help far exceeds the available resources. In comparison to the previous Sierra program, which provided over $50 million in assistance to 17,000 households during the COVID-19 pandemic, current funding levels are significantly lower, limiting the number of families that can be supported.

The committee members expressed concern about the ongoing need for housing assistance and the importance of connecting residents with resources to prevent future crises. They noted that while they are working to help individuals catch up on rent, there is also a focus on helping them secure stable income to avoid similar situations in the future.

As the meeting concluded, officials encouraged residents to stay informed about available resources and updates through the Oakland County Homeless website, where data and dashboards are regularly updated. The discussions underscored the committee's commitment to addressing housing instability and the urgent need for continued support for vulnerable community members.