Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

Chester County

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week occurs every year the week before Thanksgiving and serves as a time to reflect on two interconnected challenges facing communities across the U.S., including in Chester County: hunger and homelessness. This year, the week occurs Nov. 17-23. As living costs rise, many individuals in Chester County face housing and food insecurity. Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness (CCPEH) aims to use a housing-first lens to make strides toward long-term stability for the residents of Chester County. 

Hunger, Homelessness and the Housing-First Approach

Hunger and homelessness are deeply connected. According to the Urban Institute, food insecurity rates have been rising since 2022, and 52.2% of lower-income households (those below 200% of the federal poverty level) report food insecurity, up from previous years. Individuals experiencing homelessness often fall into this low-income household category.

The housing-first approach suggests that securing stable housing should be the primary goal when addressing hunger. Once individuals have stable housing, this becomes a foundation for addressing other challenges. With permanent shelter, individuals and families can more easily access community resources, job opportunities and social services that help combat food insecurity.

The State of Homelessness in Chester County

Thanks to the work of our network of partners, Chester County continues to see a steady decrease in the number of people entering participating emergency shelters in our community over the past five years, from 1,259 in 2019 to 741 in 2023 (a 41% decrease). In addition, the County has seen a decrease in the number of people experiencing homelessness for the first time, from 694 in 2022 to 529 in 2023 (a 24% decrease). Read more about the state of homelessness in our county in our Chester County 2024 Continuum of Care System Performance Data Report or the 2024 Point-in-Time Count. 

However, there is still work to be done to eliminate homelessness in our community and inequities are still apparent – 11% of people experiencing homelessness have been identified as potentially chronically homeless, and people of color make up 62% of those experiencing homelessness in our community. 

National Overview of Hunger and Housing Solutions

The challenges of hunger and homelessness are not limited to Chester County — they are part of a nationwide crisis. According to the Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) 2024 Report by United Way, 41% of households in Pennsylvania were below the ALICE threshold in 2022. These households earn above the Federal Poverty Level but still struggle to meet basic living costs, often having to make impossible choices like paying rent or buying food. Rising costs and reduced pandemic assistance have made it more difficult for families to keep up with essential expenses. 

The National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) Out of Reach 2024 Report also underscores the gap between wages and the cost of basic housing across the country, highlighting that renters with low incomes are finding it increasingly challenging to afford even modest rental homes. For example, in Chester County, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,737 per month. To afford this without spending more than 30% of their income, a household would need to earn approximately $33.40 per hour — much higher than the minimum wage. Exploring the report reveals that this challenge is mirrored in many communities nationwide. 

The ALICE and NLIHC data demonstrate that the housing-first model is crucial for overcoming food insecurity nationwide, and affordable housing is a necessary first step toward security in all other aspects of an individual’s life. Stable housing not only provides shelter but also a foundation for families to achieve greater financial stability, access education, maintain employment, and address other critical needs.

How You Can Help

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is a meaningful time to take action to help those in need. CCPEH plays a vital role in addressing both hunger and homelessness. By prioritizing permanent housing and providing essential services, CCPEH helps residents move from temporary shelters to stable homes. Our housing-first model ensures that individuals have the support they need to remain housed long-term. The data continues to show that housing-first works in helping individuals and families remain housed. 91% of people who exited from a program to permanent housing did not return to homelessness two years later. Of those individuals who were enrolled in permanent housing programs, 97% remained in permanent supportive housing or exited to permanent housing. 

Community donations are critical to maintaining these programs and ensuring they continue to support those most vulnerable. Whether by donating, volunteering, or raising awareness, every contribution helps. This Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, consider supporting the CCPEH Partnership fund. Contributions go directly toward programs that provide stable housing, food security and a brighter future for those in need.

How Housing First Supports Survivors of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness, especially for women and children. Survivors face a complex array of challenges when trying to rebuild their lives, from securing housing to addressing emotional and financial needs. This is where the Domestic Violence Housing First (DVHF) model comes in, offering a survivor-centered, trauma-informed approach that prioritizes getting survivors into stable housing as quickly as possible. Unlike traditional methods, DVHF not only provides a roof over their heads, but also offers ongoing support tailored to the unique needs of each survivor.

Survivor-Driven, Flexible, and Trauma-Informed Advocacy

The core of DVHF is survivor-driven advocacy. Instead of offering a one-size-fits-all solution, advocates ask, “What do you need?” This approach gives survivors the power to set their own goals and decide what support would benefit them most. Whether it’s help with rent, childcare, transportation, or legal services, DVHF recognizes that each survivor’s needs are unique and varied.

Flexible financial assistance plays a critical role in ensuring housing stability. This assistance isn’t limited to just paying rent or utility bills; it also helps with indirect costs like child care, work uniforms, or even car repairs—things that may seem small but can make a huge difference in maintaining housing. As one California-based DVHF program, NEWS, highlights, flexible funding allows them to creatively use resources to help survivors remain in their homes, preventing homelessness altogether.

Mobile Advocacy and Building Community Connections

Another key feature of DVHF is mobile advocacy, which brings support directly to survivors. Rather than requiring survivors to come to an office, advocates meet them where it is safe and convenient, such as at a park, coffee shop, or their home. This informal setting helps build trust and allows advocates to better understand the survivor’s circumstances, offering personalized support that extends beyond just housing—whether it’s accompanying them to legal appointments or helping them search for jobs.

DVHF also emphasizes community engagement. Advocates work with landlords, housing providers, and other community partners to ensure survivors have access to stable housing even if they don’t meet traditional rental requirements. By forging relationships with these stakeholders, programs like NEWS have successfully convinced landlords to prioritize housing survivors, providing ongoing support to both the tenant and the landlord to ensure stability.

Improved Outcomes: Stability, Safety, and Well-Being

Studies underscore the effectiveness of the DVHF model. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that survivors who received DVHF services experienced significantly greater improvements in housing stability, safety, and mental health symptoms, such as reduced depression and PTSD, compared to those who received traditional services. Over a 24-month period, survivors consistently reported improved well-being, emphasizing the long-term benefits of this model.

Additionally, research shows that DVHF reduces re-abuse and economic instability. A 12-month study found that survivors receiving DVHF reported decreased physical, psychological, and economic abuse, along with improved housing stability. By addressing both immediate and long-term needs, DVHF helps survivors rebuild their lives in a holistic and sustainable way.

Local Resources for Survivors

For survivors in Chester County, PA, the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County (DVCCC) offers essential services, including counseling, housing, legal support, and public education. Their Survivor’s Toolbox provides a wealth of resources—webinars, apps, podcasts, and more—that empower survivors to take control of their lives and thrive beyond violence.

Conclusion

The Housing First approach, and specifically DVHF, offers a transformative pathway for survivors of domestic violence. By centering survivors' voices, offering flexible financial assistance, and building strong community connections, DVHF helps survivors regain control of their lives, free from violence, with the stability of a safe home. While more funding is necessary to expand these services, the success stories emerging from programs across the country highlight the life-changing impact of this approach.

For more information on how Housing First can support survivors, or to access local resources, visit the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County’s website.

Resources:

• “What is DVHF?” One Pager PDF by Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (wscadv.org)

• Domestic Violence Housing First Model (safehousingpartnerships.org)

• Housing First Approach Helps Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence Remain Stably Housed | National Low Income Housing Coalition (nlihc.org)

• Domestic Violence Housing First Model and Association With Survivors’ Housing Stability, Safety, and Well-being Over 2 Years | Public Health | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network

• Impact of the Domestic Violence Housing First Model on Survivors’ Safety and Housing Stability: 12-Month Findings - PMC (nih.gov)

• Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence in Chester County (dvcccpa.org)

Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Education

Homelessness often causes long-term implications for young people’s educational outcomes and their futures. Read on to learn more about the prevalence of young people experiencing homelessness in Chester County, its impact on education, the local resources available, and how you can help make a difference.

The Prevalence of Young People Experiencing Homelessness in Chester County

According to the 2024 Point-In-Time (PIT) count, 213 people were experiencing homelessness in Chester County on January 24, 2024, and 30% of the homeless population were children. 63 children under age 18 were staying in emergency shelters or transitional housing, and 101 individuals (or 47% of people experiencing homelessness) were part of families with children. This highlights the ongoing challenge of young people experiencing homelessness in our community​. 

Impact of Homelessness on Education

Young people experiencing homelessness face many obstacles to enrolling in, attending and excelling in school. Young people experiencing homelessness may struggle to get consistent transportation to school, have issues completing residency requirements, or may have an inability to obtain previous school records. Some young people experiencing homelessness may not have adequate clothing or school supplies. Being healthy enough to attend school is also a concern – according to the National Coalition for the Homeless, young people experiencing homelessness are in fair or poor health twice as often as other children and also experience more mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and withdrawal. They are two times more likely to experience hunger than their housed peers, and four times more likely to have delayed development. 

All these impacts mean that young people experiencing homelessness may miss more school or need to transfer mid-year, leading to inconsistent education and limited access to support services. The risk of not graduating high school is higher for students who experience instability in their education. These factors contribute to higher dropout rates and lower academic performance among young people experiencing homelessness. 

Local Housing Resources

Chester County has implemented several programs to support young people experiencing homelessness and their families. The Eviction Prevention Case Resolution Program is designed to reduce eviction filings in the county, and the Emergency Rental Assistance Program supported rent costs for community members who suffered an income reduction as a result of COVID-19. Unfortunately, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program ended in February of this year and there is still much to be done to address the crisis of youth people experiencing homelessness in our county.

How You Can Help

When students experiencing homelessness are able to attend school regularly and don’t have to transfer mid-year, research shows that they can graduate high school at rates similar to their housed peers. Addressing homelessness for young people requires the collective effort of the entire community. Donations to Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness partners are essential in order to sustain the programs that support young people experiencing homelessness. Your contributions can provide shelter and food, expand the number of affordable housing units in our county, increase educational resources, and provide other essential services to children in need. To make a difference today, please visit our housing solution partners page and contribute to the fight against homelessness in Chester County.

Unraveling the Threads: Race, Gender and Sexuality & Homelessness

Understanding the complexities of homelessness requires an exploration of the interconnected threads that shape the fabric of our lives. Social determinants of health, as defined by the American Medical Association, encompass the community-wide conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. Among these determinants, race, gender, and sexuality play pivotal roles in shaping housing outcomes.

African Americans and Indigenous people are disproportionately affected by homelessness, a consequence of historical and structural racism deeply embedded within societal systems. Despite comprising a smaller percentage of the general population, African Americans represent a significant majority of those experiencing homelessness, particularly among families with children. Similarly, the LGBTQ+ community faces heightened risks of homelessness, with studies indicating that LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely as the general population to experience homelessness in their lifetime. Transgender individuals are especially vulnerable, with 8% experiencing homelessness within a single year. Moreover, LGBTQ+ youth often find themselves without stable housing after coming out to their families, contributing to the overrepresentation of LGBTQ+ individuals within the homeless population. 

In honor of Pride Month and Juneteenth, this month’s blog will focus on the interplay between race, gender, sexuality, and housing instability. Read on to learn more:

Race and Homelessness

Recent research has highlighted the link between race and homelessness in the United States. A comprehensive data analysis conducted over an 11-year period from 2007 to 2017, as outlined in the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Disparities, reveals concerning trends: Black, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander individuals and families consistently faced a higher likelihood of experiencing homelessness compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts. These findings underscore the persistent and escalating nature of racial disparities in homelessness, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions to address systemic inequities.

Similarly, insights from "Homelessness Is a Housing and Racism Problem" by Bill Pitkin underscore the intricate relationship between housing market dynamics, structural racism, and homelessness. Despite popular misconceptions attributing homelessness to individual vulnerabilities such as addiction and mental health issues, research instead indicates that housing market challenges - exacerbated by historical legacies of racism - play a pivotal role in driving homelessness rates. While racial composition alone does not entirely explain regional disparities in homelessness levels, structural racism deeply embedded within housing and social welfare systems perpetuates racial inequalities, amplifying the risk of housing insecurity among communities of color.

As efforts to combat homelessness continue to evolve, a multifaceted approach that not only addresses immediate housing needs but also confronts the root causes of racial disparities is required to bring the vision of housing justice grounded in equity and inclusivity to reality.

Gender, Sexuality and Homelessness

Furthermore, understanding the connection between gender, sexuality, and homelessness sheds light on the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly youth, who are disproportionately represented among the homeless population. Discrimination, harassment, and a lack of support services contribute to their vulnerability, often leading to rejection by families and subsequent homelessness. 

Studies reveal alarming statistics: up to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQIA+, and they are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than their non-LGBTQIA+ peers. These youth often face abuse and unsafe conditions in shelters, driving many to avoid them altogether. Discharge from foster care is a significant contributor to LGBTQIA+ youth homelessness, with studies showing high rates of homelessness post-discharge. Moreover, LGBTQIA+ homeless youth are more likely to engage in survival sex and face higher risks of victimization, mental health issues, and suicide attempts compared to their heterosexual peers. 

Recognizing these challenges, efforts to support LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing homelessness include LGBTQIA+ cultural sensitivity training for service providers, LGBTQIA+ inclusive shelters, and initiatives for LGBTQIA+ specific housing. The commitment to addressing the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals facing homelessness extends beyond Pride Month, reflecting the need for a year-round commitment to cultural sensitivity and support.

Understanding the complex relationship between race, gender, sexuality, and homelessness underscores the need for action. As we mark Pride Month and Juneteenth, let’s move beyond reflection and take steps towards equity and justice by supporting policies that tackle systemic inequalities, backing initiatives offering culturally sensitive support, and elevating the voices of those most impacted. Together we can ensure everyone has a stable, safe place to call home. 

Further Reading & Resources

• Racial & Social Equity (endhomelessnesschesco.org)

• Racial Equity - HUD Exchange

• Homelessness and Racial Disparities - National Alliance to End Homelessness

• A-Brief-Timeline-of-Race-and-Homelessness-in-America-March-2019.pdf (community.solutions)

• LGBTQ Homelessness - HUD Exchange

• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Queer Health - National Health Care for the Homeless Council (nhchc.org)

• At the Intersections: A Collaborative Resource on LGBTQ Youth Homelessness - True Colors United

Empoderando a las personas sin hogar con Chesco Connect

El transporte confiable es un salvavidas para las personas sin vivienda estable, ya que les permite acceder a recursos vitales y navegar por los sistemas de servicio de manera efectiva. Como tal, queríamos asegurarnos de que nuestros socios conocieran Chesco Connect, el programa de tránsito comunitario del condado de Chester dedicado a brindar servicios de transporte esenciales para todos los residentes, incluidos aquellos sin hogar.

¿Quién puede ser pasajero?

Chesco Connect atiende a una amplia gama de personas dentro del condado de Chester, incluidas las personas sin hogar:

1. Personas mayores: Los adultos de 65 años o más pueden acceder a transporte de tarifa reducida a través del Programa de Transporte Compartido para Personas Mayores, lo que garantiza que puedan asistir a citas y participar en actividades comunitarias.

2. Personas con discapacidades: Las personas de 18 a 64 años con discapacidades reconocidas por la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades (ADA, por sus siglas en inglés) pueden calificar para transporte de tarifa reducida a través del Programa de Personas con Discapacidades (PcD, por sus siglas en inglés), mejorando su independencia y movilidad.

3. Beneficiarios de Asistencia Médica: Aquellos con una tarjeta de Asistencia Médica vigente pueden ser elegibles para servicios de transporte a citas médicas y farmacias a través del Programa de Transporte de Asistencia Médica (MATP), lo que garantiza que reciban la atención que necesitan.

4. Público general: Para aquellos que no califican para los programas anteriores, Chesco Connect todavía ofrece servicios de transporte a tarifa completa.

¿Cómo abordo el autobús?

1. Registro: Llame al 610-344-5545 o visite el sitio web Find My Ride de PennDOT para registrarse en los servicios de transporte y determinar la elegibilidad para las tarifas con descuento, asegurando que las personas sin hogar puedan acceder al apoyo que necesitan.

2. Reserva: Programe viajes llamando al 610-344-5545 con al menos un día hábil de anticipación antes de la 1:00 p. m., brindando a las personas sin hogar un transporte confiable a citas y servicios críticos.

3. Cancelar: Si los planes cambian, las personas pueden cancelar los viajes llamando al 610-344-5545 o utilizando el portal de autoservicio, lo que garantiza que los recursos de transporte se utilicen de manera efectiva.

Horario y ubicaciones de servicio

Chesco Connect opera de lunes a viernes de 7:00 a. m. a 5:30 p. m., con un servicio limitado los sábados para viajes de soporte vital y compras de comestibles a partir de septiembre de 2023. El servicio fuera del condado está disponible para citas médicas, con días específicos asignados para diferentes condados.

El precio del pasaje

Las tarifas varían según la elegibilidad, con tarifas con descuento disponibles para personas mayores, personas con discapacidades y beneficiarios de asistencia médica. Para las personas sin hogar, Chesco Connect ofrece servicios de transporte vitales a tarifa completa, lo que garantiza un acceso equitativo a soluciones de movilidad.

Para obtener información detallada sobre las tarifas y explorar la elegibilidad para los programas con descuento, llame al 610-344-5545.

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Recursos adicionales

Folleto de MATF: Para obtener información en español sobre el Programa de Transporte de Asistencia Médica, las personas pueden acceder a los folletos en línea o solicitar copias a través de la oficina de Chesco Connect.

Folleto en español

El Hueco: La Escasez de Viviendas Asequibles 2024

Los Estados Unidos tienen una escasez de 7,3 millones de casas de alquiler asequibles y disponibles para inquilinos con ingresos extremadamente bajos, es decir, ingresos por debajo o por debajo de la pauta federal de pobreza o el 30% de los ingresos medios de su área, lo que sea mayor. Solo existen 34 viviendas de alquiler asequibles y disponibles por cada 100 hogares de inquilinos de ingresos extremadamente bajos. Los inquilinos de ingresos extremadamente bajos enfrentan una escasez en todos los estados y áreas metropolitanas importantes. En 12 de las 50 áreas metropolitanas más grandes del país, la escasez absoluta de viviendas asequibles y disponibles para inquilinos de ingresos extremadamente bajos supera las 100,000 unidades.

Fuera de Alcance 2023

En Julio 2023, el NLIHC publicó Fuera de Alcance: El Alto Costo de la Vivienda 2023, una edición en español de ‘Out of Reach: The High Cost of Housing 2023’. Publicado anualmente, el informe Out of Reach destaca la brecha entre los salarios que ganan las personas y el precio de las viviendas de alquiler modestas en los Estados Unidos. El informe de este año muestra cómo los altos alquileres resultantes del rápido crecimiento de los alquileres durante la pandemia y el fin de muchos programas de beneficios de la era de la pandemia se combinan para exacerbar la inseguridad financiera de los inquilinos de bajos ingresos. Esto lleva a tasas más altas de presentación de desalojos y a un aumento de la falta de vivienda en algunas comunidades.

What One Faith Community Is Doing to Address the Affordable Housing Crisis in Chester County

Community Partner Spotlight: Westminster Presbyterian Church

With a growing gap between housing costs and wages, the dream of living in Chester County is slipping away for many families and individuals. A West Chester faith community, Westminster Presbyterian Church, has been at the forefront of advocacy and change, making significant strides toward addressing the housing affordability crisis.

Westminster Presbyterian Church's Home Team was formed five years ago to work to end homelessness and promote affordable housing in our county. The Home Team explains the problem and its impact, and has provided some resources to explore how we, as a community, can make housing attainable for all.

The Home Team Addresses the Problem

The Home Team was first formed because the church recognized the significant disparity between the rising housing costs and the slower growth of wages in Chester County. The lack of reasonably priced housing prevents many in our workforce from living where they work. Data from the Chester County Planning Commision’s “Housing Report-2023” showed:

• The 2023 the median sales price ($492,000) was the highest in Chester County history, even when adjusting for inflation.

• As sales prices continue to rise, the number and percentage of lower price homes has decreased.

• Only 462 homes sold for under $250,000 in 2023, down by 3.1% from 2022. A household earning 100% Area Median Income ($118,574) could afford a house at around $350,000, and only 23% (1,237) of home sales were under this price in 2023.

This imbalance has left many unable to afford to live near where they work, affecting our economy and the social fabric of our community.

Impact on the Community

The lack of affordable housing in Chester County affects many residents. As the Home Team began its work, the team reflected on how the housing crisis affects a broad spectrum of residents – it impacts homeless families relying on vouchers, young professionals starting their careers, and teachers who shape our children’s futures. It impacts essential workers – nurses, EMTs and retail employees – and the county’s growing senior population, which is projected to nearly double by 2045. These are the individuals who make our local economy prosper, yet they are becoming increasingly unable to afford to live in our county.

Barriers to Solutions

The Home Team also realized that several hurdles stand in the way of resolving the affordable housing crisis. Outdated development processes and zoning ordinances increase housing costs. Obtaining funding for affordable housing is a complicated and time-consuming process; it can be easier for developers to build high-end housing instead. There’s also resistance from a vocal minority who oppose changes, further slowing down the creation of affordable housing.

The Home Team’s Call-to-Action

These challenges, however, are not insurmountable – you can help! By working together, we can build a more inclusive and sustainable future for all. Here are some ideas and resources for advocating for affordable housing in Chester County.

• Advocate: Speak [RH3] up in municipal meetings, and let your voice be heard in favor of policy changes that promote affordable housing. The Home Team has created an Advocacy Talking Points document which you can use to aid in this effort. You can also visit their Attainable Housing Advocacy Website to learn more.

• Community Involvement: Participate in or support local housing initiatives that are working on these issues. Search the Chester County Authorities, Boards and Commissions webpage to become involved.

• Donate: Support the Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness, knowing that your contributions support our mission to create a community where everyone can afford to live.

• Educate Yourself and Others: The Home Team developed this video on the housing crisis and advocacy. They have also developed a 20-minute presentation and presentation talking points that you can use to educate others. In addition, here are two short videos describing a successful workforce housing project, Pinckney Hill Commons in West Chester Borough.  This video tells a tenant’s story.  This one tells the developer’s and Borough’s story. Make your vote count for affordable housing by researching candidates for office and learning more about their policies on housing.

• Volunteer and Organize: The Home Team are active volunteers promoting housing affordability. Volunteer for community organizations, faith-based organizations and nonprofits that support helping those in need, and help spread awareness about the need for affordable housing. The Chester County Community Resource Guide has a list of organizations and their contact information.

Change is Possible

The efforts you see here exemplify how individual actions can ignite community-wide change. By following the Home Team’s lead, we can collectively tackle the housing affordability crisis in Chester County, ensuring it remains a thriving community for all. If you would like to become a champion in your own organization or if you have questions about the Home Team’s efforts at Westminster Presbyterian Church, please contact Burt Rothenberger at BFRothen@verizon.net or contact Ruth Simonson at RSimonson19@gmail.com.

Empowering Homeless Individuals with Chesco Connect

Reliable transportation is a lifeline for individuals without stable housing, enabling them to access vital resources and navigate service systems effectively. As such, we wanted to make sure that our Partners know about Chesco Connect, Chester County's community transit program dedicated to providing essential transportation services for all residents, including those experiencing homelessness.

Who Can Ride

Chesco Connect serves a diverse range of individuals within Chester County, including those experiencing homelessness:

1.    Seniors: Adults aged 65 and older can access reduced-rate transportation through the Senior Shared Ride Program, ensuring they can attend appointments and engage in community activities.

2.    Persons with Disabilities: Individuals aged 18-64 with disabilities recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can qualify for reduced-rate transportation through the Persons with Disabilities Program (PwD), enhancing their independence and mobility.

3.    Medical Assistance Recipients: Those with a current Medical Assistance card may be eligible for transportation services to medical appointments and pharmacies through the Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP), ensuring they receive the care they need.

4.    General Public: For those who don't qualify for the above programs, Chesco Connect still offers transportation services at full fare.

How To Ride

1.    Register: Call 610-344-5545 or visit PennDOT’s Find My Ride website to register for transportation services and determine eligibility for discounted rates, ensuring that individuals experiencing homelessness can access the support they need.

2.    Reserve: Schedule rides by calling 610-344-5545 at least one business day in advance before 1:00 PM, providing individuals experiencing homelessness with reliable transportation to critical appointments and services.

3.    Cancel: If plans change, individuals can cancel rides by calling 610-344-5545 or using the self-service portal, ensuring that transportation resources are utilized effectively.

Service Hours and Locations

Chesco Connect operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with limited Saturday service for life-sustaining trips and grocery shopping as of September 2023. Out-of-county service is available for medical appointments, with specific days allocated for different counties.

Fares

Fares vary depending on eligibility, with discounted rates available for seniors, persons with disabilities, and medical assistance recipients. For individuals experiencing homelessness, Chesco Connect offers vital transportation services at full fare, ensuring equitable access to mobility solutions.

For detailed fare information and to explore eligibility for discounted programs, call 610-344-5545.

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Additional Resources

MATP Brochure: For information in both English and Spanish about the Medical Assistance Transportation Program, individuals can access brochures online or request copies through Chesco Connect's office.

English Brochure | Spanish Brochure

Chesco Connect User Guide & Application: To further support individuals experiencing homelessness in navigating transportation services, Chesco Connect provides user guides and applications online or by request.

English User Guide & Application

Inactive Household By-Name List Exit Policy

Background: The Inactive Policy is an integral component of maintaining a real-time by-name list, as well as a robust Coordinated Entry System. To ensure an efficient assessment and referral process, it is critical that the Targeted Homelessness Resource Coordinator and housing programs have the ability to contact and connect with households as soon as a housing opportunity becomes available. Without this policy, the Coordinated Entry System can experience delays in its referral procedures due to the time spent searching for households in the community that they have been unable to reach through multiple attempts, often for many months. Due to this loss of contact, it is difficult for the system to determine whether these households are still in need of housing. In some situations, these households may have self-resolved their housing crisis or relocated to another county.

Policy: If a household on the Chester County By Name List for Case Conferencing has had no contact with Coordinated Entry or Street Outreach for 60 days, AND they have had no services or shelter stays in HMIS for the past 60 days the household will be removed from the “Active Homeless List” and placed on the “Inactive List”. Street Outreach staff will advise all households added to the by-name list to maintain contact with a participating service provider at a minimum every 60 days. If a household on the “Inactive List” makes contact with any members of the homeless system, including outreach workers, drop-in centers, shelters, meal lines, etc., they will be moved from the “Inactive List” to the “Active Homeless List” and then can be referred to housing openings once they have re-engaged with the system, which may require a reassessment of their vulnerability and verification of homelessness status. If a household has had no contact with the Coordinated Entry, Street Outreach, or other Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) participating providers for 90 days, that household is eligible for removal from the by-name list and will be exited from coordinated entry programs and services. Inactive clients will be reviewed at Case Conferencing meetings prior to being exited from the by-Name List. The Case Conferencing group will designate a responsible party tasked with attempting contact with the household, when appropriate. Households that are closed are eligible for services upon re-verification of homelessness and reassessment of vulnerability.

Moving Up and On Policy

The Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness (CCPEH) and its partner providers are guided by the principles that:

1. Housing is a human right.

2. Families and individuals experiencing homelessness as defined by the HEARTH Act should receive housing first, regardless of any barriers to permanent housing stability.

3. Once housed, families and individuals exiting from homelessness should be provided supportive services to ensure their housing stability.

4. Housing resources (e.g., case management, housing location services, subsidies, and referrals to other services) should be flexible and customized to the unique needs, strengths, and living situations of a family or individual using a person-centered, progressive approach.

Consistent with these beliefs the CCPEH partnership has developed this Moving Up and On policy to ensure that all persons currently or formerly experiencing homelessness are provided the best opportunity to gain and retain permanent housing.

CCPEH and its partner providers understand that occasionally special circumstances may arise that are not explicitly covered by this policy. In such circumstances it is expected that a majority decision be made based on our guiding principles.

Moving On and Moving Up Eligibility

All Rapid Rehousing (RRH), Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH), and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program participants are eligible for Moving On. To access Moving On services, a program participant or their representative must submit a completed Chester County Moving Up and On Assessment form to appropriate provider agency. All final Moving On recommendations shall be decided by a council consisting of the participating housing program’s staff using the guidelines below.

This policy is primarily intended for use and application by housing provider agencies and the CCPEH Case Conferencing Group. Potential housing provider programs are as follows:

• Human Services Inc. RRH-PH for CTI

• Human Services Inc. RRH Families & Individuals

• Human Services Inc. RRH Families and Individuals

• Open Hearth Housing Options PSH & PSH for Chronically Homeless

• Human Services Inc. Safe Haven PSH

• Housing Authority of Chester County Homeless Preference Housing Choice Voucher

  Program

• Housing Authority of Chester County Mainstream Voucher Program

• Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities Program

• Affordable housing developers

Moving Up Guidelines: RRH to PSH or PH

RRH program participants should be considered for PSH or other Permanent Housing (PH) programs based on program availability, eligibility, and as part of a progressive engagement approach. Generally speaking, candidates for this type of intervention have evidenced difficulty in gaining or maintaining housing with RRH resources due the need for more intensive supportive services, financial need, or any combination thereof. Candidates with a strictly financial need, such as those on fixed incomes like SSI, should be considered for permanent housing resources.

Candidates for this intervention will be evaluated using the “Move Up Assessment Form”.

Final recommendations on who will be offered this intervention will be decided by a council consisting of the participating housing program’s staff. In accordance with client choice, participants will be offered this option and must accept to move up from RRH to PSH or PH.

Moving On Guidelines: PSH to PH

Moving On is a voluntary process. Households enrolled in PSH projects have all the rights of tenancy and may remain in a program for as long as they desire. Moving On helps maximizes participant choice by and is intended to promote self- sufficiency for households currently living in PSH.

PSH participants should be considered for PH programs based on program availability, eligibility, and when the participant/s have evidenced insufficient need for formal supportive services through a PSH program. Generally speaking, candidates for this type of intervention have achieved a lengthy period of housing stability in a PSH Program.

Candidates for this intervention will be evaluated by using the CCPEH Moving On Assessment Form.

Final recommendations on who will be offered this intervention will be decided by a council consisting of the participating housing program’s staff. In accordance with client choice, participants will be offered this option and must accept the move from PSH to PH. All participants must sign a waiver indicating that they understand and accept this action.

PSH participants who Move On should be offered case management support as needed.

Training Opportunities

The following training opportunities are available to CCPEH partner providers:

• General Overview

• For PSH and RRH Providers

• For Public Housing Authorities

• Supportive Services

• Assessment and Preparation

• HMIS Workflow

Templates and Forms

The following templates and forms are available from the CCPEH website at https://endhomelessnesschesco.org:

• Moving On MOU template

• HACC Intake Interview Letter

• Move On Assessment Form

• Move Up Assessment Form

People can’t afford to live here, say Chester County housing activists

Chester County’s homeless population rises for first time since 2020

“Chester County’s homeless population rose for the first time since 2020.

Data from Chester County’s 2023 Point-In-Time count tallied 436 unhoused people on Jan. 25, an eight percent increase from 2022. The latest numbers from Pennsylvania’s wealthiest county — which previously pledged to end chronic homelessness by 2021 — are not an encouraging sign.

Up until last year, the county had made steady progress when many neighboring jurisdictions struggled to combat the housing crisis, “We continue to look for opportunities to develop more affordable housing. Unfortunately, in this market, it’s become increasingly difficult to find safe, decent, and affordable housing — despite our efforts to create more housing over the past few years,” said Shaun Bollig, deputy director for the Chester County Department of Community Development (DCD).”

Click the button to view the full WHYY article, written by Kenny Cooper:

2023 PHARE Funding Awarded to Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness Partner Organizations

In the ongoing battle against the affordable housing crisis, it is essential to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of organizations that work tirelessly towards creating safe and affordable homes for individuals and families in need.

The Partnership is excited to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed partner organizations for their well-deserved recognition and success in being awarded the 2023 Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) funding:

• Home of the Sparrow: Apartment Subleases & Trauma-Informed Case Management for Justice-Involved Women

• Friends Association for the Care and Protection of Children: Chester County Eviction Prevention Court (EPC); NIA House

• Domestic Violence Center of Chester County: Homelessness Prevention for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence; Renovations to Housing for Domestic Violence Victims and Survivors

• Kennett Area Community Service: Homelessness Prevention in Southern Chester County

• Housing Partnership of Chester County: Housing Counseling Program

• Housing Authority of the County of Chester: Housing Locator Program

• W.C. Atkinson Memorial Community Service Center, Inc.: Individualized Intensive Case Management and Homelessness Prevention

• Human Services, Inc.: Project Rehabilitation

• Chester County Department of Community Development: Street Outreach and Data Team Reinforcement Efforts

• Open Hearth, Inc.: Targeted Homelessness Resource Coordination

the Potential of PHARE Funding

In our communities, access to safe and affordable housing is a fundamental necessity that forms the bedrock of stable and vibrant neighborhoods. Unfortunately, Pennsylvania continues to grapple with a shortage of affordable housing options, leaving countless individuals and families without a place to call home. 

One essential tool that has proven effective in addressing this crisis is the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund. However, the current funding cap imposed on PHARE significantly limits its impact. It is crucial for us to raise awareness about the urgent need to raise the PHARE funding cap and harness the full potential of this invaluable resource. Let's delve into the importance of PHARE and the benefits of raising the funding cap.

Understanding The PHARE Cap

The Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) program was established to address the shortage of affordable housing in the state. It provides vital funding to support various initiatives, including rental and down payment assistance, housing rehabilitation, and neighborhood revitalization. PHARE grants enable local communities, nonprofits, and developers to create affordable housing opportunities and improve the quality of life for countless Pennsylvanians.

While PHARE has made significant strides in combating the housing crisis, its impact remains constrained due to the funding cap imposed on the program. The current cap limits the allocation of funds to a mere $25 million annually. Given the magnitude of the housing challenges faced by the state, this cap restricts the program's potential to create lasting change. As demand for affordable housing continues to grow, raising the PHARE funding cap becomes imperative.

Why Raise the Funding Cap?

1. Increased Availability of Affordable Housing: Raising the funding cap would enable PHARE to support a greater number of affordable housing projects, helping to alleviate the severe shortage experienced by individuals and families across Pennsylvania. More funds mean more homes and more opportunities for those in need.

2. Neighborhood Revitalization and Economic Growth: Affordable housing is a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization and economic growth. By raising the funding cap, PHARE can invest in initiatives that not only provide affordable homes but also improve infrastructure, create jobs, and enhance the overall livability of communities.

3. Strengthening Local Communities: PHARE funds are distributed to local communities, nonprofits, and developers who understand the unique housing challenges of their regions. By raising the funding cap, we empower these entities to address specific needs, foster partnerships, and implement innovative solutions tailored to their communities' requirements.

4. Long-term Cost Savings: Investing in affordable housing now can lead to substantial cost savings in the long run. Stable housing reduces the strain on emergency shelters, hospitals, and other public services, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars.

How Can You Make a Difference?

Share this blog post, along with the PHARE Raise the Cap fact sheet (available at https://housingalliancepa.org/resources/phare-raise-the-cap-fact-sheet/), through social media, email, or community newsletters. Encourage others to educate themselves about the importance of raising the PHARE funding cap. You can also engage with organizations dedicated to affordable housing advocacy, such as the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania (https://housingalliancepa.org/). By joining these groups, you can amplify your impact and contribute to a statewide movement for change.

Código Azul: Refugio de Emergencia para Climas Extremos

Un Código Azul se declara cuando las condiciones climáticas invernales representan una amenaza de daño severo o muerte a personas sin refugio. Los residentes del Condado de Chester que necesitan refugio contra el frío deben llamar al 2-1-1 para recibir asistencia inmediata. Para obtener más información, visite chesco.org/codeblue o consulte la Política de refugios de emergencia para climas extremos.

16 homeless Chester County residents who died honored

Sixteen homeless Chester County residents who died in the past year were remembered during a memorial service recently at the historic Chester County Courthouse.

A candle was lit for each person who passed, while their names and ages were solemnly read, during National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day 2022.

Similar events were held nationwide to mark Dec. 21, the first day of winter and the longest night of the year.

The goal of the memorial service that attracted almost three dozen attendees was to commemorate the men, women and children who died on the streets and in emergency shelters this year, to recommit to ending homelessness in Chester County and to prevent such deaths in the future.