15:55A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation on the “United to End Homelessness” initiative, a collaborative effort involving over 70 member agencies in the Fargo-Moorhead area. The initiative’s primary mission is to find permanent solutions to prevent and end homelessness. The presenter outlined the scope of homelessness in the region, noting that an estimated 1,050 individuals experience homelessness on any given night, with local shelters operating at full capacity.

38:14Statistics revealed a 5% increase in local homelessness over the past year, with approximately 600 students affected in the metro area. The presenter stressed the need for an interconnected network of support services, highlighting the crowded outreach and coordinated entry systems as critical entry points for those seeking assistance. With only around 330 shelter beds available on a given night, the presenter argued that while emergency shelters are essential, they are not long-term solutions. Instead, efforts should focus on supportive housing and rapid rehousing to transition individuals into permanent housing.

The council also discussed the establishment of the Cass Clay Interagency Council on Homelessness, a long-term strategy to combat homelessness. This council represents a collaborative effort involving stakeholders from multiple municipalities and counties. The local council is modeled after the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, and its creation was marked by a joint proclamation with the metro mayors and commissioners from Cass and Clay counties.

A steering committee has been formed to tackle the crisis of unsheltered homelessness, identifying a need for $2.5 million to support these efforts. As winter programming draws to a close, 55 to 65 individuals are at risk of becoming unsheltered, prompting urgent action to secure housing and resources.

Discussions during the meeting highlighted the challenges of securing funding for homelessness programs, particularly in light of declining federal grants. Agencies reliant on these funds face uncertainty, with some approaching the new fiscal year with caution. Concerns about stereotypes surrounding homelessness were raised, as these misconceptions can deter individuals from seeking help and hinder community investment in solutions. Emphasis was placed on the role of community members in addressing the issue, encouraging education on homelessness causes and volunteerism with local organizations.

Affordable housing was another key topic, with the council exploring ways to include developers in conversations about creating housing solutions. The regional housing needs assessment conducted by Metrocog is seen as a tool to align development with homelessness reduction goals. The need for innovative approaches to tackle long waiting lists for services was also discussed, with personal accounts underscoring the effectiveness of early intervention programs.

54:52The meeting also touched on immigration issues, emphasizing the need for community education about the legal status of immigrants and protection for legal permanent residents. A council member mentioned an upcoming event in Detroit aimed at improving dialogue and resources for welcoming immigrants, with plans to revisit the concept of Moorhead becoming a welcoming city.

10:06Other community initiatives were announced, including upcoming events like the Welcoming and Wellness Celebration hosted by New Roots Midwest, the Kidfest of 2025, and Mental Health Days in the Park. The council emphasized the importance of community engagement and coordination among various organizations to maximize participation in these events.