Charlotte's Multi-Faceted Approach to Homelessness Solutions

Charlotte city and county leaders are rolling out separate efforts to address homelessness along Catherine Simmons Avenue. The City of Charlotte has purchased three properties as part of an initiative to bring affordable housing to the area.

City Councilmember Malcolm Graham highlighted the need to control illegal activities and loitering, stating that the region has struggled with vacant homes and unsheltered individuals for years. Meanwhile, Mecklenburg County has launched a $1 million plan targeting conditions in and around the corridor.

Karen Pelletier, division director of Housing, Innovation and Stabilization Services with Mecklenburg County, mentioned that a task force was formed last summer to tackle the rising number of unsheltered people.

The county's plan includes expanding outreach services with Hearts for the Invisible, offering transportation to shelters or treatment, providing mobile showers, and increasing shelter capacity through My Sisters House and the Roof Above Giles Center.

Pelletier emphasized that this effort is designed to be short-term, targeting a six-month project plan to connect services with community needs. Graham noted that the city's affordable housing effort is still in its early stages, with more details expected as planning progresses.