In a recent meeting of the Justice Resource Advisory Council in Buncombe County, excitement buzzed through the room as members discussed the receipt of the Just Home grant, aimed at addressing housing needs for justice-involved individuals. The grant, which includes $200,000 for a planning period starting in July, is a significant step toward tackling the pressing issue of housing shortages for this vulnerable population.

The council's discussions highlighted the critical need for housing solutions, a theme that has resonated since the new justice services director joined in July. The planning phase will involve engaging stakeholders and individuals with lived experiences to identify the specific demographics that require support. This collaborative approach aims to determine whether the focus should be on juveniles, women, or other groups, and what types of services will be necessary once individuals are housed.

A key component of the grant is a capital funding loan of up to $5 million, available every ten years at a low interest rate. This funding could be used for new developments or the rehabilitation of existing housing stock, depending on the outcomes of the planning process. Council members expressed the importance of integrating justice-involved individuals into the community, emphasizing the need for scattered site housing to avoid isolation.

The meeting also touched on the broader context of housing challenges in Buncombe County, where the availability of affordable housing is dwindling. With rising rent costs and a significant loss of housing units, the council is exploring various strategies, including a $23 million investment in new housing for people with disabilities and a $2 million allocation for housing subsidies.

As the council prepares for the planning phase, they are keen to gather data on housing needs and the barriers faced by justice-involved individuals. This includes understanding the long-term impacts of new construction versus rehabilitation of existing properties. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the looming deadline of 2026 for appropriating the grant funds.

In addition to housing, the council is also focusing on community engagement, particularly with individuals who have been previously detained. They aim to improve access to resources and support for those transitioning back into society, recognizing the barriers that often lead to recidivism.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed a strong desire for collaboration and input from all stakeholders, emphasizing that the success of the Just Home initiative hinges on collective wisdom and action. The council's commitment to addressing these complex issues reflects a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of housing, justice, and community well-being in Buncombe County.