Sarah Russell, Special Assistant to End Homelessness for the City of Burlington, works on developing and managing initiatives and policies with the aim to make homelessness rare and brief in Chittenden County. She spoke to us on March 6 about her role, which includes coordination among various support organizations, direct service, and advocacy in Montpelier.
One of the challenges currently facing efforts to reduce homelessness is the reduction of federal Section 8 grants, which help people get into subsidized housing. Additionally, the federal government has abruptly defunded fair housing programs that help prevent discrimination.
Russell explained that the state's contentious motel program, which she cited as costing $80 per room per night regardless of the number of people staying in the room, is cheaper than direct services programs. The latter cost about $140 per bed per night.
To see and hear Sarah's talk with our Rotary club, go to: https://youtu.be/PY7t9uZEFVU