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(ABC 6 News) – Homelessness is an ongoing problem with no end in sight here in Olmsted County. And that’s why Any Path Home was created.
“We know the need is growing, and there are other organizations and programs within our program that are also working to help homeless people. It was very important for us to collaborate and come together,” said Candace Voeller, administrative officer for the Salvation Army in Rochester.
The Salvation Army in Rochester is one of the organizations participating in the initiative. They and the others have been trying to fight homelessness on their own for some time, until they all realized that joining forces could lead to better results.
“The next step will be to continue this conversation and continue our efforts,” Voeller said.
Next steps for Any Path Home include expanding reach, improving data collection, strengthening partnerships, and addressing gaps in our support system.
“One of the gaps we’re trying to fill is how do we preserve records, understanding and knowledge. So how has a person been to the Salvation Army, has they been to The Landing, has they been to Dorothy Day or the warming center and how can we maintain those touchpoints so that we can continue to support that person, that individual, and provide the ongoing resources,” Voeller said.
And while the groups admit it’s a tough fight, they say it’s worth fighting.
“It’s challenging because there are so many organizations, but it’s also rewarding because you see how great the organizations are in our community and how wonderful the people are who really dedicate their lives to their organization and for whom this is really their calling,” says Dave Dunn, planning and housing director for Olmsted County.
Click here for more information about the Any Path Home initiative.
