The “Familiar Faces” program, a key focus of the meeting, was highlighted as a componet in addressing homelessness in St. Paul. This initiative targets individuals who are often seen cycling through emergency services without achieving lasting stability. A detailed staff report explained the program’s multifaceted approach, which includes intensive care management, outreach, case management, and behavioral health services. The program envisions a 24-hour facility dedicated to supporting these individuals by serving as a grounding location and facilitating connections to necessary services.

Initial outreach efforts have seen approximately 30-35 individuals receive direct services, with housing placements facilitated for about 20 individuals. The program emphasizes collaboration with community providers and city departments to fill service gaps and improve outcomes. The focus is on building trust with individuals, understanding their unique circumstances, and creating personalized care plans that address the root causes of their situations. The program also acknowledges the difficulty in achieving housing stability, citing challenges such as eviction rates and the effectiveness of current housing providers.

A concern raised during the meeting was the increasing rate of evictions among permanent supportive housing providers. Commissioners discussed the importance of viewing housing programs not just as temporary solutions but as opportunities for long-term stability.

The participants also debated the operationalization of a 24-hour facility, with alternatives such as scattered site placements being considered. Funding constraints, particularly HUD guidelines, which specify the use of funds for non-congregate shelter, were noted as challenges. The meeting revealed ongoing discussions about different sheltering models, including “village” models with lower overheads, as the authority seeks to adapt to current needs.

The meeting also touched on the “Familiar Families” program, which mirrors the “Familiar Faces” initiative but targets families experiencing recurring homelessness. This program emerged from community service provider discussions and aims to deliver tailored services to families to break cycles of homelessness. Funding for both initiatives was discussed, with the city allocating $500,000 from the Housing Trust Fund, matched by the Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundation with an additional $250,000.

Participants raised questions about the long-term funding strategy for these programs, given shifting federal and state funding dynamics. The necessity of well-coordinated services to address the needs of vulnerable populations was emphasized, and the importance of data in informing funding decisions and program development was underscored.

The ongoing dialogue during the meeting also delved into the broader context of funding and support systems. Participants noted the city’s need to rethink community safety and support structures, particularly through the Office of Neighborhood Safety. The importance of capturing data and successful community initiative narratives was stressed to prioritize budgetary decisions effectively. The concept of “swapping dollars” was introduced.

The upcoming opening of a new family shelter space in Bandana Square was another significant topic. This former hotel is being converted to serve families, with hopes for it to be operational in the coming months, pending court approvals. The conversation also touched upon the differences in programming for families compared to individuals, highlighting the need for tailored approaches.

Commissioners expressed excitement over the strategic investments in supportive housing through the Heading Home, Ramsey initiative, which involves $800,000 from the city. The governing board’s role in determining funding sources and releasing Requests for Proposals (RFPs) was clarified.