The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday to accept state grants to support the continued operation of the Bob Janes Empowerment Center and to provide housing and services for people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The grants, from the Florida Department of Children and Families, are:
• $407,750 to provide housing and services for persons who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. About 12 people will be prevented from becoming homeless, and 24 people will be re-housed. An additional 528 people will be provided information and referrals for support services. The funds must be expended by June 30, 2023.
• $325,000 to continue operation of the Bob Janes Empowerment Center/Low Demand Shelter. The Bob Janes Empowerment Center provides diversion from incarceration and/or unnecessary use of emergency departments for individuals with behavioral health issues. During Fiscal Year 20-21, 817 individuals were served at the Empowerment Center. Funds will be administered through a contract with The Center for Progress and Excellence. This funding represents the third year of a three-year award.
Lee County Human & Veterans Services serves as a collaborative hub for resources ‒ federal, state, local, private and nonprofit ‒ designated to aid Lee County residents through supportive programs and services.
For more information on Lee County Human & Veterans Services programs, log on to www.leegov.com/dhs. If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, call the department’s coordinated entry help line at 239-533-7996.
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Original source can be found here.
