The Impact of Linn County's First Low-Barrier Shelter in Its Initial Year
The article describes the situation and experiences related to the homeless shelter in Sweet Home, Linn County. Brandon Williams, a former resident of the Family Assistance and Resource Center’s shelter, candidly shared his journey from a hardworking nurse’s assistant to someone battling a debilitating illness. After becoming unable to work due to Charcot neuroarthropathy, a chronic and destructive bone disease, Williams turned to the Sweet Home shelter for assistance. The low-barrier facility, which is the only of its kind in East Linn County, has served as a temporary refuge for people waiting for disability benefits approval and access to affordable housing.
Apart from providing a safe space, the shelter also strives to establish wrap-around services by collaborating with various organizations. Despite the administrative challenges and strict adherence to rules, the shelter has made a significant impact. According to available data, 21 people have moved from the streets into housing since the shelter’s inception.
Shirley Byrd, the founder of the shelter, reveals plans to add more huts, some of which will be used as transitional housing for those unable to meet standard rental requirements. She also expressed a desire to introduce support programs for residents with traumatic brain injuries. The ultimate goal, she stated, is to accommodate more people than the previous year.
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