The Central and Northeastern Connecticut United Way is launching a program to help people experiencing homelessness or may be about to.
This initiative is called the “Rapid Response Fund,” and United Way leaders say they have $100,000 ready to help combat the homelessness issue in the state. They currently know of around 1,200 people sleeping on the street at night.
Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said the housing crisis has become unavoidable.
“We have started to see an increase in homelessness for the second year in a row,” Bysiewicz said. “It’s up 13% from this point last year.”
Organization leaders say half of these announced funds will be given to various towns to be used on their local homelessness solutions, while United Way will give out the other half through a person’s individual case worker.
United Way President Eric Harrison said the money will help people stay in their current homes if they have one or get someone currently unhoused into a safe shelter or housing situation.
“Since September, there has been a disturbing increase in elderly homelessness and a surge in unsheltered family homelessness from September to October,” Harrison said.
The money will also help with living expenses and bills, as they tend to get higher during the winter.
United Way leaders said they have a long way to go before the issue is solved but this money is a good start.
If you are experiencing homelessness, you can contact your town officials or assigned case workers to apply for that money.
To learn more about United Way, head to their website.
Brooke Griffin is a reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at bgriffin@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.