In-depth: Continuum of Care helps those facing homelessness

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – This week, Colleen Kosta went in-depth about homelessness in the community and the services available to those in need.

Kosta works as the coordinator for the Mahoning County Homeless Continuum of Care.

The Continuum of Care helps fund local nonprofits that provide housing services to people in need. It also reviews the homeless system, identifies any gaps, and brings organizations together to talk about homelessness in the community.

“We partner with Help Network, Catholic Charities Regional Agency, Meridian Health Care, YWCA, Mahoning Valley Beatitude House and the Mahoning County Mental Health Recovery Board,” Kosta said.

Those experiencing homelessness can call 211 to receive assistance.

“The 211 worker will do an initial assessment and figure out the needs and identify any problems that maybe somebody has, and do some initial referrals from there. That’s also how you gain access to our centralized intake process for all of our housing services,” Kosta said.

There are some guidelines to determine who is eligible for different services. There is state, federal and local funding available for for people in different circumstances and situations. Kosta says it’s important for all the organizations to work together.

“Some people, you know, some funding sources require you be literally homeless or staying in an emergency shelter or staying outside. But then there’s also homeless prevention funding. So that’s maybe somebody that is facing an eviction or is staying with a family or friend and it’s not a very good situation for that person,” she said.

This conversation continues Wednesday with more about the Continuum of Care, including the increase in the number of homeless in our community where there’s a need to be served.

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