The city of Gary is putting together a plan to address housing insecurity.
The 2022 Point in Time count found 272 people experiencing homelessness — while almost a third of Gary residents are below the federal poverty level, according to Census Bureau data. Now, the city has gotten $2.49 million through the federal HOME-ARP program, which is funded with COVID-19 relief money.
During a public hearing Tuesday, Julie Silas with planning consultant Homebase said the city is looking to allocate a million of that to boost affordable rental housing options and another $650,000 toward the cost of a new, "low-barrier" shelter. "Anyone could use the shelter. It's free of conditions for entry or participation, and the rules are for staff or resident safety," Silas explained.
The shelter would also provide assistance for individuals to eventually find stable housing and move out.
The draft plan also provides $360,000 for support services. Silas said the input received so far shows a big need for case management, child care, food access and transportation, among other services, "That it's really hard to access services in the city, basic childcare or groceries, and that you need a strong transportation system."
Members of the public have until February 8 to weigh in on the plan with an online survey. It will then be up to city officials to consider specific projects, find community partners and identify local funding sources.
