Several non-profit entities serving Carroll County residents request funding assistance from the county on an annual basis. The Family Crisis Centers (FCC) are no exception, coming before the supervisors every year to detail the work they have accomplished and explain their needs. This year, a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant has helped the FCC with housing, homelessness and homelessness prevention. Steven Hallgren was hired last October as director of that initiative, and he told the supervisors earlier this week that he was astonished to be contacted about someone in need from this area very early on.
This works in conjunction with the Rapid Rehousing Program that gets clients in need out of a dangerous or unstable situation. Hallgren says the new program allows them to reach non-domestic violence clients, which is a completely new service. He says he can assist anyone in the county, including those who are currently homeless or those who are on the verge of losing their housing.
There are some income limitations for rent assistance and that information is available by contacting the Family Crisis Centers directly, details for which are included below. Executive Director, Shari Kastein, says these funds are helping those impacted by the pandemic.
Kastein thanked the supervisors for their continued support, adding the money they receive is used as a match for state and federal dollars that require local buy-in. Last year the FCC received a $6,000 allocation. This year they are asking for $10,000 to further help with the new program. Kastein adds, she realizes the county is being tasked with much more than normal due to COVID, but the impact is also being felt by the residents and their monetary support will help those in need. No decision was made. The final funding amount will be determined as the supervisors work through the budgeting process.
Phone number for Family Crisis Centers: 800-382-5603
