05/20/2024
Report on Homelessness in Cabarrus County, North Carolina
Current State of Homelessness
As of the latest reports, homelessness in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, has seen significant challenges. The Point-in-Time (PIT) count, a key measure of homelessness, indicated an increase in unsheltered homelessness across North Carolina, including Cabarrus County. Specifically, Cabarrus County ranks sixth in the state for evictions, with about 3,300 eviction notices filed in Fiscal Year 2023, up from 2,600 in 2022 and 1,500 in 2021. This increase suggests a growing housing instability issue in the county.
Key Factors Contributing to Homelessness
Rising Evictions: The high eviction rates are a primary driver of homelessness. Many residents face eviction due to a combination of high rent, low wages, and limited access to emergency assistance.
Cost of Living: Fair Market Rents (FMRs) have been rising, making it difficult for low-income families to afford housing. Between 2019 and 2023, FMRs for a modest two-bedroom apartment in North Carolina increased by 38%.
Lack of Awareness and Funding for Assistance Programs: The county's emergency rental assistance program has been underutilized due to insufficient funding and low public awareness. However, recent changes have doubled the program's funding and improved accessibility.
Plan of Action to Combat Homelessness
Increase Funding and Accessibility of Rental Assistance Programs:
Expand Financial Assistance: Double the financial assistance available to up to $1,000 per applicant and ensure the application process is accessible online and in person. This will help more residents avoid eviction and stabilize their housing situations.
Enhance Public Awareness: Launch a comprehensive outreach campaign to inform residents about available assistance programs and how to access them.
Improve Data Collection and Use:
Regular PIT Counts: Conduct more frequent and comprehensive Point-in-Time counts to better understand the scope and dynamics of homelessness in Cabarrus County.
Utilize HMIS: Integrate more agencies into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) to improve data accuracy and resource allocation.
Develop Affordable Housing:
Increase Affordable Housing Units: Work with developers to create more affordable housing units. This can be incentivized through tax credits, grants, and public-private partnerships.
Support Housing First Initiatives: Prioritize permanent housing solutions for the homeless, which has been shown to be effective in reducing chronic homelessness.
Enhance Support Services:
Wraparound Services: Provide comprehensive support services, including mental health care, substance abuse treatment, job training, and placement services, to address the root causes of homelessness.
Case Management: Increase the number of case managers to help individuals navigate the system, access resources, and develop long-term stability plans.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement:
Collaborative Approach: Engage local governments, non-profits, businesses, and the community in a coordinated effort to tackle homelessness. This includes regular stakeholder meetings, shared goals, and pooled resources.
Advocacy and Policy Change: Advocate for state and federal policies that support affordable housing, increase funding for homelessness programs, and address systemic issues contributing to homelessness.
By implementing these strategies, Cabarrus County can make significant strides in reducing homelessness and supporting its residents in achieving stable and secure housing.
References
North Carolina Housing Coalition, 2024 County Profiles
NC Coalition to End Homelessness, Annual Homeless Assessment Report
WCNC Charlotte, Updates on Cabarrus County Homelessness Initiatives
