Норман і Асацыяцыя псіхічнага здароўя запускаюць ініцыятыву па барацьбе з бяздомнасцю

Norman, Oklahoma, is partnering with the Mental Health Association Oklahoma to combat homelessness through a new initiative called “A Better Way – Opportunity Knocks.” Announced on May 9, this program aims to connect unhoused individuals with employment and supportive housing resources amid rising homelessness in the city.

The initiative is funded by opioid settlement funds allocated to Norman and focuses on engaging the local homeless population directly at encampments and shelters. Participants in the program will undergo a two-week training that includes daily meals and pay for a day’s work. Compensation is provided at the end of each shift, and upon completion of the program, participants will be connected with case managers who can assist them in securing housing, permanent jobs, and access to behavioral health care.

Carrie Blumert, CEO of the Mental Health Association and a former Oklahoma County commissioner, emphasized the organization’s commitment to outreach, stating that they will engage directly with individuals in need. “We go under a bridge. We will go to someone on a street corner and engage with them and build trust with them to get them access to services,” Blumert said.

The original “Better Way” program began in Tulsa in 2018, where it has achieved notable success. Over the past seven years, participants in Tulsa have collected over 8,000 bags of litter as part of local beautification efforts, and last year, 67 participants transitioned to long-term, full-time employment. Between January and August 2024, at least 14 individuals moved from homelessness into stable housing.

Similar initiatives, such as the Key to Home Partnership’s Encampment Rehousing Initiative in Oklahoma City, have shown effective results, housing at least 355 individuals since 2023. However, homelessness remains a contentious issue in Norman, with the latest Point-in-Time Count reporting 240 individuals experiencing homelessness, a 23% increase since 2023.

Recent legislative efforts, such as a proposed bill by state Senator Lisa Standridge to restrict new homeless shelters near schools and parks, have sparked debate. Although the bill did not pass, it reflects ongoing tensions between business owners and advocates for the homeless community. Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila, who supported Standridge’s proposal, stated that the city lacks sufficient funds to adequately support the homeless population.

Heikkila highlighted that the “Better Way” initiative had been in development for over two years, primarily delayed by funding challenges. The opioid settlement funds, distributed over 18 years, have enabled the program’s launch. “This initiative is more than just a program; it’s a call to action,” Heikkila said, emphasizing the importance of offering work opportunities and direct access to services for those ready to improve their circumstances.

During the launch event in downtown Norman, city officials and Mental Health Association staff celebrated this new collaboration. Michele Loudenback, the city’s environmental and sustainability manager, mentioned that a branded van for “A Better Way” will begin operating on the streets by June 1. She expressed optimism about the program’s potential to ease tensions in the community and foster connections between residents.

Overall, the “A Better Way – Opportunity Knocks” initiative represents a proactive step toward addressing homelessness in Norman, offering tangible support and resources to those in need while fostering community engagement and collaboration.