Miami-Dade County's Homeless Trust Board convened on June 27, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding homelessness and housing in the region. A key highlight from the meeting was the announcement of the annual Illuminations Gala, set for October 25 at the JW Marriott Marquise in Downtown Miami. This year marks a significant milestone, celebrating 30 years of service to the community, with invitations extended to sponsors and stakeholders.

During the meeting, the board recognized Lisa Mazum for her exceptional advocacy work at the recent "Take a Walk in Her Shoes" event, underscoring the importance of community engagement in addressing homelessness.

The economic indicators presented revealed a mixed picture for Miami-Dade County. While food and beverage collections rose by 20.74% in May, the unemployment rate stood at 2.7%, with over 38,000 individuals unemployed. The helpline reported over 13,000 calls, primarily concerning imminent homelessness, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by residents.

The board discussed the status of emergency housing vouchers, noting that over 626 clients are currently housed, but funding for these programs is expected to diminish in the coming months. The urgency of the situation was emphasized, as new vouchers are frozen, complicating the transition of clients into permanent housing.

A significant development was the potential deal involving a hostel that currently houses over 200 individuals. The City Commission is considering a proposal to allow increased density for a developer in exchange for repurposing the hostel property. The board is committed to ensuring that no individuals are left on the streets if the hostel closes, with plans to provide alternative housing options.

Additionally, the board is preparing for an independent audit to enhance transparency and improve operations, following a directive from the Board of County Commissioners. The meeting concluded with the announcement of a special appropriation of $475,000 aimed at acquiring property for families with minor children, building on previous successful housing initiatives.

As Miami-Dade County continues to navigate the complexities of homelessness and housing, the board remains focused on collaborative efforts and strategic planning to address these pressing community needs.