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Homeless Prevention
VOC has started a Homeless Prevention Program funded through several different grants and local partnerships, including the cities of Chicopee, Holyoke and Westfield. This program provides intensive case management, referrals and financial assistance for rent or mortgage for those who qualify and have been impacted by COVID-19.
With minimal outreach, there has been an overwhelming response to this program - the need in the community is clear. Since the beginning of the Homeless Prevention Program in August, VOC has assisted 21 families with rent or mortgage so they will remain housed; connected and provided information on services to 167 individuals; and referred 27 families to Fuel Assistance, three to WIC and eight to the food and diaper delivery program.
Jessica King, Director of Homeless and Supportive Services, shares, “Together with friends from the cities of Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield, in addition to the United Way and the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, we have seen what we can do as a community to help support each other during challenging times.”
Virginia works for the School Department. She is 70 years old with several underlying health conditions. Although she has typically only worked 15 hours a week, she has always been able to pay her rent and bills. Due to the pandemic, her place of employment closed. She began to fall behind on her bills but was hesitant to reach out for help. Her landlord heard about the program and reached out on her behalf. After speaking with Virginia it became very clear that she was a hard working woman who, like many, was hit hard financially by the pandemic. VOC was able to assist her with her past-due rent and also utilize other programs within the agency. She is a current fuel client and between the two programs she is able to maintain her independence, and pay her bills without having to make a choice between her medications and her rent and utility bills. She looks forward to sharing her experience with her friends.
