The City of Wichita provides oversight for homeless programs which are funded with Federal Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) funds. The City receives a direct allocation of ESG funds, and also applies for Kansas ESG funds on behalf of local service providers. ESG funds can be used for maintenance, operations, and essential services for homeless shelters, and for homeless prevention. In addition, the Department is in partnership with Sedgwick county, to operate the Housing First program for chronically homeless persons. Rent payments for the Housing First clients are funded with City and County general funds.
A homeless shelter. |
In order to receive other homeless funding for the Wichita community, a Continuum of Care (CoC) application is submitted on behalf of local agencies. The United Way of the Plains coordinates the submission of the CoC application, which includes a number of community programs, including the Shelter Plus Care program which the City Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program staff administer in partnership with community agencies which provide services.
In 2006, the Wichita City Council and the Sedgwick County Commission appointed a Task Force on Ending Chronic Homelessness (TECH). The TECH presented their report in March, 2008, which included five recommendations:
1. Create a One Stop Resource and Referral Center. United Methodist Open Door is taking the lead on this project and hopes to open a center in 2010.
2. Implement a Housing First program. The City and County are jointly funding this program. The program goal is to house 64 persons on a permanent basis.
3. Add Additional Emergency Housing Options. This option is being addressed through efforts of the local faith community which is provided emergency shelter during the winter months at downtown area churches. These shelters are operated with private (non-City) funds.
4. Create a Sustainable Funding source. This recommendation is being reviewed by the oversight committee. (See below)
5. Create an Oversight Committee. An oversight committee was established to monitor implementation of the plan. This committee meets quarterly to receive and discuss reports on each component of the plan.
Wichita Homeless Services Coalition
This Coalition is made up of service providers who meet on a regular basis to exchange information to ensure coordination of services for the homeless population.
Community Council on Homeless Advocacy (formerly Wichita Homeless Task Force)
The CCHA serves as a resource for information policy recommendations for elected officials and service providers. Its membership includes service providers as well as business adn other community resources.
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