Title
Consider approving a Program Funding Agreement with Metrocrest Services, Inc. related to ending child homelessness; and take appropriate action
Body
BACKGROUND:
In April 2018, Metrocrest Services began holding periodic roundtables including the staff from cities and school districts served as well as staff from area social service agencies. The goal was to coordinate efforts to help residents in need of assistance. During these meetings, the multi-faceted issue of homelessness -specifically child homelessness - became a central focus.
The recent Point-in-Time Homeless Count identified 245 Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District (CFB/ISD) students defined as homeless of which 43 reside in Farmers Branch. The CFB/ISD has increased free breakfast and lunch support to students most in need with the realization that, for many, this is the only meal they receive each day. Metrocrest Services is able to provide rental assistance to families for one month in order to avoid/prevent homelessness at current funding levels. However, they have indicated that 3-4 months of assistance is often necessary to allow a family to get back on their feet and break the cycle of homelessness.
At the strategic planning session on February 20, 2019, City Council identified ending child homelessness in Farmers Branch as a priority and directed staff to work with Metrocrest Services in developing a one-year results-based program. Should this program achieve demonstrated results during the year, a program expansion is envisioned to include other area cities and businesses in order to work towards ending child homelessness throughout CFB/ISD. Similar programs throughout the country have been used to end veteran homelessness.
DISCUSSION:
City Council will have the opportunity to review the contract for services and interact with leadership from Metrocrest Services. This will allow for a greater understanding of the many layers of homelessness, being at-risk of homeles...
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