One Albuquerque Housing Fund Helping House Homeless Individuals
November 12, 2019
Mayor Tim Keller, the City of Albuquerque’s Department of Family and Community Services, and the Barrett Foundation announced today that the Barrett Foundation will be able to move at least two families that currently reside in the Barrett House emergency shelter into permanent housing. Thanks to Albuquerque residents, who continue to use the fast and convenient online donation tool to the One Albuquerque Housing Fund, the City was able to issue the Barrett Foundation a check for $25,000.
The City of Albuquerque made an $8,000 payment to the Supportive Housing Coalition in August that helped to house two individuals. The second round of donations will help the Barrett House help pay for one-time housing costs, such as security deposits, and help pay for rent until families are back on their feet. Created to ramp up the availability of housing vouchers for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, the One Albuquerque Housing Fund has raised approximately $35,000 since its inception.
“The people of Albuquerque have been instrumental in making housing vouchers available for those in need of housing,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “These donations help address the fundamental need of those facing homelessness, by making housing available. I am proud of our community for coming together to support the Housing Fund.”
People experiencing homelessness have different needs. Some are working, and just need help paying the security deposit, first month’s rent and last month’s rent in order to obtain an apartment. Some households will also need the support of a case manager, to help them connect to community resources, apply for jobs, learn how to be good tenants and develop basic life skills. Others may have serious disabilities and need longer term support.
Last week, voters in Albuquerque approved $14 million to help fund an emergency housing center to provide short-term shelter and connect people to services. Acknowledging that no single facility can address the complex population of people experiencing homelessness, the City recognizes Barrett House and service providers like it as an important part of this system.
“We also know that a very important part of making the emergency shelter successful is to provide housing vouchers that get people out of the shelter and into more permanent places where they can address the other issues in their life. Barrett House is a key partner on this side of the equation as well,” Mayor Keller said.
All households will contribute 30 percent of their income towards rent, which helps develop tenancy skills and allows the One Albuquerque Housing Fund to serve additional people experiencing homelessness.
To donate to the One Albuquerque Housing Fund, visit www.DonateABQ.org.. The City will continue to make the results available to the public so people can see the direct impact of their contributions.
Learn more about the Mayor’s plan to address homelessness here: www.cabq.gov/mayor/crime-strategy#3-homeless-help.