Raleigh Unveils $5 Million Pilot Initiative to Combat Homelessness
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RALEIGH, N.C. - ncarol.com -- Raleigh's latest effort to address the homeless crisis in Raleigh involves a $5 million investment targeting individuals living in makeshift camps.

According to officials, this program could reduce homelessness by 64% and save taxpayers $76,000 per person, per year. The city estimates taxpayers will save $15,000 to 25,000 for every person who's off the street.

Raleigh has identified 48 homeless camps in city parks and 21 in other areas.

Emila Sutton, Director of Raleigh Housing and Neighborhoods, notes that homelessness in Raleigh has increased 200% increase over the past three years. Of the $5 million, $3 million will be allocated to relocating individuals from camps and providing rent assistance, while the remaining $2 million will go towards repairing and expanding affordable housing options.

"This is a good start," says Eddie Jones, of Team Jesus. "Every time the city cleans out a camp, individuals are left scrambling to find alternative places to sleep. Even the cheapest motel room is approximately $70 nightly. That's $2,100 a month. Securing a one-bedroom apartment at $1,300 per month poses a significant financial strain for individuals earning minimum wage."

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Stephen Gruver, Chair of the Wake Continuum of Care, stresses the ultimate goal is to provide housing and fostering a safer community for all. The pilot program aims to assist approximately 40 individuals in transitioning from camps to housing, with plans for evaluation and potential expansion in the future.

"We're praying for a deeper commitment from the people of Raleigh," says Jones. "Imagine if every person who calls themselves a Christian, guided by the spirit of Jesus, saw those in need as their neighbors and contributed just $25 monthly. With the compassion of Christ, many of those we see sleeping on steps and on benches could transition from being recipients of aid to actively giving back to their community.

"The Moore Square friends we know possess a strong desire to work," Jones added. "And yet they struggle to secure and maintain employment while grappling with the challenges of homelessness—relying on shelter showers and enduring long bus commutes. Many would be surprised to learn how hard those at the bottom of the ladder are working to climb up."

Learn how you can help move someone from a bench to a bed at: visit: http://mooresquarechurch.org/