Coalition for Affordable Housing
November 17, 2009
Present: Tom Isakson, New Creation; Carol Nordstrom, Salem U.C.C. Church; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunties; Jim Drader, New Creation; Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Cherie Davich, HealthLinc; Brenda Sheetz, Porter County Community Foundation; Mary Hodson, Mental Health America of Porter County; Jim Henderson, Rays of Hope; Mike Yohe, Christian Community Action; David Cavanaugh, Porter County Sheriff's Department; Bob Franko (CHAIR), Porter-Starke Services; Heather Badger, Spring Valley Shelter; Missy Hayes, Spring Valley Shelter; Darrell Franklin, Spring Valley Shelter; Janet Stewart, Spring Valley Shelter; Ellen Paladini-Stone, Spring Valley Shelter; Bruce Linder, Porter County Aging and Community Services.
Discussed the community needs assessment that was completed some years ago, funded by HCDA. It was noted that one of the recommendations from that assessment was to create a county or city housing authority.
LaPorte County recently completed it's needs assessment and 10-year plan (will post on this site as it comes available). It was funded with a $50,000 grant.
Discussed the ongoing resource project -content still being developed. No new developments on website hosting. Tabled until further discussion on Housing Summit is held.
Housing Summit - was proposed by Bob Franko after having discussions with various partners and community stakeholders. Intent would be to bring together all stakeholders involved in housing in the county to determine needs, build cohesion, share resources and build better data. Committee was formed to explore summit structure: Bob Franko, Madge Whickar, Housing Opportunities representative, Sheriff's Department, Brenda Sheetz.
Gave agency updates:
Bruce Lindner reported that PCACS would be expanding bus-run hours, and that energy assistance had a deadline coming up of December 1.
Tom Isakson talked about New Creation's current progress and the need to have housing for homeless men in place by April 1, after the church support finishes for the winter.
Caroline Shook talked about the Rapid Rehousing program.
HOUSING SUMMIT COMMITTEE REPORT
December 10, 2009
Blackbird Cafe
Brenda Sheetz (PCCF), LaTosha Knight (HO), Bob Franko (PSS), Erin Miller (CCA).
Erin discussed the Northwest Indiana Housing Summit typically held in the Spring in Merrillville, with a keynote by Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman - hosted by the NWI Continuum of Care Council.
It was decided before proceeding with plans to develop a Porter County summit, that we learn more about the regional summit. Bob will contact Sharon Liggons (via Erin) and get the date and agenda for the next conference. Once we secure that information, Bob will distribute the information to the committee and we can decide on how to proceed with plans on a PC Summit (if deemed necessary).
Friday, December 11, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Coalition for Affordable Housing Meeting Minutes:
09/15/09
1. A community member shared her experiences with being evicted twice through the Porter County Court system and expressed a need for a person or department to take complaints and enforce contracts between landlords and tenants and a Liaison or Advocate to investigate prior to the implementation of a 5-day eviction notice.
2. A Chicago Tenants’ Rights Advocacy Group was discussed as a template for such programming.
3. In Valparaiso, the Mayor’s Group provides housing suggestions.
4. It was discussed that there is a law that states that a security deposit cannot be used for missed rent, only damages, cleaning carpet, or painting walls.
5. Referral sources were discussed. Indiana Legal Services works with housing and eviction issues.
6. The Coalition discussed a web-based resource list to focus on housing referrals.
7. There is a need to collect data to determine what the community needs from legislators.
8. CCA discussed that the Front Door Project will eventually be able to help with applications for Medicaid, Food Stamps, and other community/Government assistance.
9. It was recommended that the Coalition utilize Google Apps for a $10.00 registration fee to create the resource website.
10. The website will include updated referrals to community assistance agencies. Indiana Government offices provide a resource website of helpful numbers that the Coalition can enhance. People in need of housing can access the website through the Front Door program and the Coalition will approach libraries to allow individuals to access this website without a library card.
11. Task Forces were assigned:
a. Website and Resource list development Task Force
b. Advocacy Task Force
12. CCA will have their Front Door Program Open house today from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm
13. The next meeting is scheduled for November 17th, 2009 at Porter County United Way.
09/15/09
1. A community member shared her experiences with being evicted twice through the Porter County Court system and expressed a need for a person or department to take complaints and enforce contracts between landlords and tenants and a Liaison or Advocate to investigate prior to the implementation of a 5-day eviction notice.
2. A Chicago Tenants’ Rights Advocacy Group was discussed as a template for such programming.
3. In Valparaiso, the Mayor’s Group provides housing suggestions.
4. It was discussed that there is a law that states that a security deposit cannot be used for missed rent, only damages, cleaning carpet, or painting walls.
5. Referral sources were discussed. Indiana Legal Services works with housing and eviction issues.
6. The Coalition discussed a web-based resource list to focus on housing referrals.
7. There is a need to collect data to determine what the community needs from legislators.
8. CCA discussed that the Front Door Project will eventually be able to help with applications for Medicaid, Food Stamps, and other community/Government assistance.
9. It was recommended that the Coalition utilize Google Apps for a $10.00 registration fee to create the resource website.
10. The website will include updated referrals to community assistance agencies. Indiana Government offices provide a resource website of helpful numbers that the Coalition can enhance. People in need of housing can access the website through the Front Door program and the Coalition will approach libraries to allow individuals to access this website without a library card.
11. Task Forces were assigned:
a. Website and Resource list development Task Force
b. Advocacy Task Force
12. CCA will have their Front Door Program Open house today from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm
13. The next meeting is scheduled for November 17th, 2009 at Porter County United Way.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
May 22, 2008 minutes
Porter County Coalition for Affordable Housing
May 22, 2008
United Way of Porter County
Present: Jim Henderson (Rays of Hope), Mike Yohe (CCA), Bruce Lindner (PCACS), Samantha Grooms (CCA), Diane Chilian (Alice’s House), Madge Whickar (UWPC), Laura Kats (Housing Opportunities), Debbie Kardos (Housing Opportunties), Erin Miller (CCA), Bob Franko (Porter-Starke).
Discussed group leadership – Bob Franko will remain on as Chair, Diane Chilian will assist as needed and will help with secretarial duties.
Discussed group membership and brainstormed ways to increase membership:
· Involve more civic and legislative stakeholders
· Use the press to educate community
· Involve more clergy, and agencies
Further discussed group’s mission and goals for the year:
· Increase membership
· Narrow in on message and purpose
· Create a venue for educational/communication
Group will meet again July 22, 2008 at the UWPC at 8:30 a.m.
________________________
Bob Franko
Chair
May 22, 2008
United Way of Porter County
Present: Jim Henderson (Rays of Hope), Mike Yohe (CCA), Bruce Lindner (PCACS), Samantha Grooms (CCA), Diane Chilian (Alice’s House), Madge Whickar (UWPC), Laura Kats (Housing Opportunities), Debbie Kardos (Housing Opportunties), Erin Miller (CCA), Bob Franko (Porter-Starke).
Discussed group leadership – Bob Franko will remain on as Chair, Diane Chilian will assist as needed and will help with secretarial duties.
Discussed group membership and brainstormed ways to increase membership:
· Involve more civic and legislative stakeholders
· Use the press to educate community
· Involve more clergy, and agencies
Further discussed group’s mission and goals for the year:
· Increase membership
· Narrow in on message and purpose
· Create a venue for educational/communication
Group will meet again July 22, 2008 at the UWPC at 8:30 a.m.
________________________
Bob Franko
Chair
July 22, 2008 minutes
Porter County Coalition for Affordable Housing
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
United Way of Porter County
Present: Bob Franko (Chair), Porter-Starke Services; Linda Stack, Horizon Bank; Brenda Sheetz, Porter County Community Foundation; R.G. Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Erin Miller, Christian Community Action; Samantha Grooms, Christian Community Action; Tom Isakson, New Creation Business Associates; Diane Chilian, Alice’s House; Mike Yohe, Christian Community Action; John Siebert, Housing Opportunities; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Aging and Community Services; Jim Henderson, First United Methodist Church
The meeting was called to order at 8:35 a.m.
Caroline Shook briefed the group on current HUD and Indiana Coalition on Housing and Homeless Issues (ICHHI) projects. Ms. Shook reminded members about the importance of HUD grant applicant groups attending Coalition for Affordable Housing meetings as HUD will deduct points on applications if CAH minutes do not indicate attendance/participation.
The group had a larger discussion on having more of regional approach instead of a county approach. Ms. Shook agreed to forward information about other community initiatives she is involved with in other communities, including a tour of a housing program in Chicago on September 25.
The group discussed the status of the Porter County 10-Year-Plan to end homelessness. Mr. Franko said that he will contact Dr. Carol Nordstrom to check on the status and to get some feedback. Mr. Franko noted that Dr. Nordstrom is not included on the group’s distribution list for some reason, but that he would rectify that situation.
The group discussed increasing our group size and scope to include domestic violence shelters, jail representatives, local Ministerial Associations, township/municipal officials, township trustees, health clinics and hospital representatives. Mr. Franko and Ms. Chilian agreed to identify some individuals to approach.
Mr. Yohe discussed the local utilization of the HMIS information system. Would like to see if all groups that are eligible to use the system are using it.
Ms. Whickar asked Mr. Lindner about the status of Section-8 Housing in Porter County. Mr. Lindner was not optimistic that the situation would improve anytime soon as there remains little funding to reopen the application process. Mr. Lindner proposed a new approach in partnering with local mobile home parks to purchase modular homes/mobile homes to place on their vacant lots via a Project-Based Section 8 program. He estimated there are probably 200 empty slabs in Porter County alone that could be utilized, and that the Federal Government is still holding hundreds of “Katrina Cottages” that sit unused. The group agreed this is an idea worth pursuing and agreed to bring it back up with at our next meeting with more individuals in attendance.
In the roundtable announcement time. Ms. Shook announced that Housing Opportunities is moving soon to a facility near the United Way of Porter County.
Mr. Lindner discussed the Porter County Aging and Community Services NAP credits, stating that the funds will help purchase fuel for the buses.
Mr. Isakson introduced his new endeavor, New Creation Business Associates at 653 Axe Avenue. It will help support the men’s shelter currently housed in a rotation of local churches October 1 through April 1. NCBA will also provide business services, hygiene products/showers, mail service, and job opportunities for the men.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be Tuesday, September 16 at 8:30 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Franko
Coalition Chair
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
United Way of Porter County
Present: Bob Franko (Chair), Porter-Starke Services; Linda Stack, Horizon Bank; Brenda Sheetz, Porter County Community Foundation; R.G. Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Erin Miller, Christian Community Action; Samantha Grooms, Christian Community Action; Tom Isakson, New Creation Business Associates; Diane Chilian, Alice’s House; Mike Yohe, Christian Community Action; John Siebert, Housing Opportunities; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Aging and Community Services; Jim Henderson, First United Methodist Church
The meeting was called to order at 8:35 a.m.
Caroline Shook briefed the group on current HUD and Indiana Coalition on Housing and Homeless Issues (ICHHI) projects. Ms. Shook reminded members about the importance of HUD grant applicant groups attending Coalition for Affordable Housing meetings as HUD will deduct points on applications if CAH minutes do not indicate attendance/participation.
The group had a larger discussion on having more of regional approach instead of a county approach. Ms. Shook agreed to forward information about other community initiatives she is involved with in other communities, including a tour of a housing program in Chicago on September 25.
The group discussed the status of the Porter County 10-Year-Plan to end homelessness. Mr. Franko said that he will contact Dr. Carol Nordstrom to check on the status and to get some feedback. Mr. Franko noted that Dr. Nordstrom is not included on the group’s distribution list for some reason, but that he would rectify that situation.
The group discussed increasing our group size and scope to include domestic violence shelters, jail representatives, local Ministerial Associations, township/municipal officials, township trustees, health clinics and hospital representatives. Mr. Franko and Ms. Chilian agreed to identify some individuals to approach.
Mr. Yohe discussed the local utilization of the HMIS information system. Would like to see if all groups that are eligible to use the system are using it.
Ms. Whickar asked Mr. Lindner about the status of Section-8 Housing in Porter County. Mr. Lindner was not optimistic that the situation would improve anytime soon as there remains little funding to reopen the application process. Mr. Lindner proposed a new approach in partnering with local mobile home parks to purchase modular homes/mobile homes to place on their vacant lots via a Project-Based Section 8 program. He estimated there are probably 200 empty slabs in Porter County alone that could be utilized, and that the Federal Government is still holding hundreds of “Katrina Cottages” that sit unused. The group agreed this is an idea worth pursuing and agreed to bring it back up with at our next meeting with more individuals in attendance.
In the roundtable announcement time. Ms. Shook announced that Housing Opportunities is moving soon to a facility near the United Way of Porter County.
Mr. Lindner discussed the Porter County Aging and Community Services NAP credits, stating that the funds will help purchase fuel for the buses.
Mr. Isakson introduced his new endeavor, New Creation Business Associates at 653 Axe Avenue. It will help support the men’s shelter currently housed in a rotation of local churches October 1 through April 1. NCBA will also provide business services, hygiene products/showers, mail service, and job opportunities for the men.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be Tuesday, September 16 at 8:30 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Franko
Coalition Chair
September 16, 2008 minutes
Porter County Coalition for Affordable Housing
United Way of Porter County
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
PRESENT: Glenda Owens, Gabriel’s Horn; Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Marybeth Schultz, The Caring Place; Brenda Sheetz, Porter County Community Foundation; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services; Wolfgang Rose, Moraine House; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Erin Woike, The Caring Place.
Much discussion was held on weekend flooding; many organizations represented at the meeting experienced damage including CCA and Housing Opportunties.
Bob Franko discussed status of group expansion; invitations sent to the City of Portage (Mayor Olga Velazquez), Senator Lugar’s office (Celina Weatherwax), Porter County Jail (Warden Joe Widup – Ron Gaydos); Valparaiso Ministerial Association (Rev. Richard Schmidt); Various Trustees (Edward Morales, Porter Twp Trustee) and HealthLinc (Beth Wrobel) were contacted. Most were favorable and were inclined to attend, but scheduling and weekend floods were issues for most.
RG Skadberg asked about the 10-Year-Plan to End Homelessness. Caroline Shook said that she understood that ours will be simply merged with LaPorte County’s. RG also asked about forming a “super coalition” that entails the three counties in Region 1. RG volunteered to work with Sharon Kish on identifying the contacts in the other counties and setting up a twice-yearly meeting.
Caroline provided more information about the bus trip to the Heartland Alliance in Chicago on Sept. 25.
Group discussed Bruce Lindner’s idea from July meeting that was based on utilizing the large number of empty pads in mobile home parks as potential sites for new/used FEMA trailers or mobile homes. Caroline asked if the homes would be Section 8 eligible. Bruce was unsure but would check into it.
NOTE: Later in the day on 9/16/08, Bruce sent the following email message to Bob Franko:
“Mobile homes that pass inspection qualify for the section 8 housing assistance program. It is a rent assistance program not a rent to own program.”
Agency updates:
CCA: Basement at Spring Valley completely flooded; everything down there a total loss.
Housing Opportunities: Four units on McCord were damaged by flood; new headquarters still at least 3-4 months away from being able to be occupied after July tornado.
Moraine House: Minor flooding; struggling to find ways to help residents pay rent.
Council on Aging/Community Services: Winter heat assistance program is starting. One section 8 apartment was lost to flooding.
United Way: Annual campaign has started; provided information on AmeriCorp volunteers.
Supporting Documents:
Diane Chilian sent Bob Franko a document “Housing Needs Assessment for Porter County” from June, 2005, prepared by ICHHI and delivered to the Porter County Commissioners. Bob will have copies on hand at our next meeting.
Next meeting: November 18, 2008, 8:30 a.m.; United Way of Porter County
Respectfully,
Bob Franko, Chairman
United Way of Porter County
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
PRESENT: Glenda Owens, Gabriel’s Horn; Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Marybeth Schultz, The Caring Place; Brenda Sheetz, Porter County Community Foundation; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services; Wolfgang Rose, Moraine House; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Erin Woike, The Caring Place.
Much discussion was held on weekend flooding; many organizations represented at the meeting experienced damage including CCA and Housing Opportunties.
Bob Franko discussed status of group expansion; invitations sent to the City of Portage (Mayor Olga Velazquez), Senator Lugar’s office (Celina Weatherwax), Porter County Jail (Warden Joe Widup – Ron Gaydos); Valparaiso Ministerial Association (Rev. Richard Schmidt); Various Trustees (Edward Morales, Porter Twp Trustee) and HealthLinc (Beth Wrobel) were contacted. Most were favorable and were inclined to attend, but scheduling and weekend floods were issues for most.
RG Skadberg asked about the 10-Year-Plan to End Homelessness. Caroline Shook said that she understood that ours will be simply merged with LaPorte County’s. RG also asked about forming a “super coalition” that entails the three counties in Region 1. RG volunteered to work with Sharon Kish on identifying the contacts in the other counties and setting up a twice-yearly meeting.
Caroline provided more information about the bus trip to the Heartland Alliance in Chicago on Sept. 25.
Group discussed Bruce Lindner’s idea from July meeting that was based on utilizing the large number of empty pads in mobile home parks as potential sites for new/used FEMA trailers or mobile homes. Caroline asked if the homes would be Section 8 eligible. Bruce was unsure but would check into it.
NOTE: Later in the day on 9/16/08, Bruce sent the following email message to Bob Franko:
“Mobile homes that pass inspection qualify for the section 8 housing assistance program. It is a rent assistance program not a rent to own program.”
Agency updates:
CCA: Basement at Spring Valley completely flooded; everything down there a total loss.
Housing Opportunities: Four units on McCord were damaged by flood; new headquarters still at least 3-4 months away from being able to be occupied after July tornado.
Moraine House: Minor flooding; struggling to find ways to help residents pay rent.
Council on Aging/Community Services: Winter heat assistance program is starting. One section 8 apartment was lost to flooding.
United Way: Annual campaign has started; provided information on AmeriCorp volunteers.
Supporting Documents:
Diane Chilian sent Bob Franko a document “Housing Needs Assessment for Porter County” from June, 2005, prepared by ICHHI and delivered to the Porter County Commissioners. Bob will have copies on hand at our next meeting.
Next meeting: November 18, 2008, 8:30 a.m.; United Way of Porter County
Respectfully,
Bob Franko, Chairman
November 18, 2008 minutes
Porter County Coalition for Affordable Housing
United Way of Porter County
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
PRESENT: Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Marybeth Schultz, The Caring Place;;; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Erin Woike, The Caring Place; Celina Weatherwax, Senator Lugar’s Office.
Updates were given on the status of the September flood disaster and July storms. Housing Opportunities remains out of its office, anticipating a return around the first of the new year.
Continued to discuss widening our membership while honing our mission and purpose. Discussed the development of a website. Further discussion to be held in future meetings as we include more technology partners. Will also look for a web-home and a webmaster to man the site once we decide on its format and purpose.
Due to the weather conditions, the meeting was ended early.
Next meeting: January 20, 2009, 8:30 a.m.; United Way of Porter County
Respectfully,
Bob Franko, Chairman
United Way of Porter County
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
PRESENT: Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Marybeth Schultz, The Caring Place;;; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Erin Woike, The Caring Place; Celina Weatherwax, Senator Lugar’s Office.
Updates were given on the status of the September flood disaster and July storms. Housing Opportunities remains out of its office, anticipating a return around the first of the new year.
Continued to discuss widening our membership while honing our mission and purpose. Discussed the development of a website. Further discussion to be held in future meetings as we include more technology partners. Will also look for a web-home and a webmaster to man the site once we decide on its format and purpose.
Due to the weather conditions, the meeting was ended early.
Next meeting: January 20, 2009, 8:30 a.m.; United Way of Porter County
Respectfully,
Bob Franko, Chairman
March 17, 2009 minutes
Porter County Coalition for Affordable Housing
March 17, 2009
Porter County United Way
Present: Brenda Sheetz, Porter County Community Foundation; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; Erin Woike, The Caring Place; Mike Yohe, Christian Community Action/Valparaiso University; Linda Stack, Horizon Bank; Jim Armstrong, Porter; Karen Gilmore, Porter-Starke Services; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Erin Miller, Christian Community Action; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services; Sharon Kish, United Way of Porter County; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Carol Nordstrom, Nordstrom Non-Profits; Diane Chilian, Alice’s House.
Group discussed best ways to share information with each other. A small group has already gotten together to find ways of sharing. What it found was there are systems out there already doing what we wanted. Christian Community Action, Porter-Starke, and HealthLinc are developing a system to share information. It was suggested that we all put our intake sheets together to develop a pilot program. Intake forms are probably 75% the same for all providers. We should bring other organizations in with us including the Porter County Community Foundation, United Way, banks and realtors. What role would they play as people look for affordable housing? It was mentioned that we should keep the mayors of Valparaiso and Portage in the loop.
Christian Community Action has a new “Front Door” project geared to help people link with a variety of resources in one location.
It was suggested that Chris Peters assist us in developing our website. He created nwilifelines.info.
2-1-1 is the information referral program that United Way national hopes to have fully operational by 2012. Minnesota is an example of state with a good 2-1-1 at this time. Each
HMIS has homelessness data; fed into by Housing Opportunities, Porter-Starke Services and Christian Community Action.
Discussed a web resource for CAH that would have data and information for local legislators on housing and homelessness issues; as well as resource information for individuals/providers looking for affordable housing and shelter. Could also have an online intake sheet that an individual can fill out and send to the provider they need.
Horizon Bank has a “Fresh Start Checking” program to help people understand how to establish and maintain a checking account.
Community Economic Development money is being released in May; Carol Nordstrom to have more information.
Porter-Starke Services received $144,000 in HUD money to repair its Vale Park Apartments; it will help the residents have a healthier and safer environment.
Next meeting, May 19, 8:30 a.m. – United Way of Porter County.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane Chilian
Recording Secretary
March 17, 2009
Porter County United Way
Present: Brenda Sheetz, Porter County Community Foundation; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; Erin Woike, The Caring Place; Mike Yohe, Christian Community Action/Valparaiso University; Linda Stack, Horizon Bank; Jim Armstrong, Porter; Karen Gilmore, Porter-Starke Services; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Erin Miller, Christian Community Action; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services; Sharon Kish, United Way of Porter County; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Carol Nordstrom, Nordstrom Non-Profits; Diane Chilian, Alice’s House.
Group discussed best ways to share information with each other. A small group has already gotten together to find ways of sharing. What it found was there are systems out there already doing what we wanted. Christian Community Action, Porter-Starke, and HealthLinc are developing a system to share information. It was suggested that we all put our intake sheets together to develop a pilot program. Intake forms are probably 75% the same for all providers. We should bring other organizations in with us including the Porter County Community Foundation, United Way, banks and realtors. What role would they play as people look for affordable housing? It was mentioned that we should keep the mayors of Valparaiso and Portage in the loop.
Christian Community Action has a new “Front Door” project geared to help people link with a variety of resources in one location.
It was suggested that Chris Peters assist us in developing our website. He created nwilifelines.info.
2-1-1 is the information referral program that United Way national hopes to have fully operational by 2012. Minnesota is an example of state with a good 2-1-1 at this time. Each
HMIS has homelessness data; fed into by Housing Opportunities, Porter-Starke Services and Christian Community Action.
Discussed a web resource for CAH that would have data and information for local legislators on housing and homelessness issues; as well as resource information for individuals/providers looking for affordable housing and shelter. Could also have an online intake sheet that an individual can fill out and send to the provider they need.
Horizon Bank has a “Fresh Start Checking” program to help people understand how to establish and maintain a checking account.
Community Economic Development money is being released in May; Carol Nordstrom to have more information.
Porter-Starke Services received $144,000 in HUD money to repair its Vale Park Apartments; it will help the residents have a healthier and safer environment.
Next meeting, May 19, 8:30 a.m. – United Way of Porter County.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane Chilian
Recording Secretary
May 19, 2009 Minutes
Porter County Coalition for Affordable Housing
May 19, 2009
United Way of Porter County
Present: Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Erin Woike, Caring Place; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities.
Due to low attendance, an abbreviated meeting was held. The attending parties, Porter-Starke Services, The Caring Place, Christian Community Action, and Housing Opportunities decided to set an another meeting with the leadership of each respective organization present to look at possible partnerships, collaborations and opportunities for efficiencies. Dates in June were proposed. Bob Franko will assume leadership of getting the date settled, location secured and attendees confirmed. Discussed options to think about prior to the meeting – including a grant writer, administrative functions, and other duties.
Next meeting of the CAH July 21, 2009, 8:30 a.m. United Way of Porter County.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Franko
Chairman
May 19, 2009
United Way of Porter County
Present: Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Erin Woike, Caring Place; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities.
Due to low attendance, an abbreviated meeting was held. The attending parties, Porter-Starke Services, The Caring Place, Christian Community Action, and Housing Opportunities decided to set an another meeting with the leadership of each respective organization present to look at possible partnerships, collaborations and opportunities for efficiencies. Dates in June were proposed. Bob Franko will assume leadership of getting the date settled, location secured and attendees confirmed. Discussed options to think about prior to the meeting – including a grant writer, administrative functions, and other duties.
Next meeting of the CAH July 21, 2009, 8:30 a.m. United Way of Porter County.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Franko
Chairman
July 21, 2009 Meeting Minutes
Porter County Coalition on Affordable Housing
July 21, 2009
United Way of Porter County
Present: Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Erin Miller, Christian Community Action; Darrell Franklin, Christian Community Action; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Aging and Community Services; Mary Hodson, Mental Health America of Porter County; Bill Oeding, City of Valparaiso; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Tom Isakson, New Creation; Carol Nordstrom, Nordstrom Non-Profits; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Melissa Gard, Porter-Starke Services
A discussion the status of the Campus View Apartments was held. The apartments, located at the corner of Roosevelt and LaPorte Avenue are slated for demolition this fall. Approximately 49 residents were notified and given eviction notices. The City of Valparaiso is working with a group of non-profits to help the residents find alternative housing and other services. Mary Hodson briefed the group on a recent meeting held with local providers, as well as outreach efforts to work with the residents. Bruce Lindner said the Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services may be able to lend some assistance to certain residents meeting specific criteria on the construction of ramps if need be; and also that the agency may be able to help with transportation of residents to look at potential apartments. Bill Oeding said the city is pleased with the cooperation of the non-profit community, and that the city would like to continue to enhance this relationship in order to help others in the future in similar situations. He also talked about the city’s new initiative to inspect apartments in light of the conditions found at Campus View. Mr. Oeding also discussed the city’s desire to have a housing hotline where people can call if they have questions about housing and need assistance. Bob Franko filled Mr. Oeding in on this group’s intent to have a website as a resource for individuals that would serve a similar purpose, and that perhaps the city and the Coalition could collaborate on such a venture.
Caroline Shook updated the group on a new resource in the state (1-877-GET-HOPE) that can help people in danger of foreclosure, or foreclosed upon, find resources and assistance. She said there is information on a mediation process that for people in that situation. Ms. Shook also updated the group on some current statistics that indicate a doubling of the foreclosure rates in the state from a year ago (14 percent).
Each attendee gave a brief update on news from their organizations:
Melissa Gard – said that Porter-Starke is looking to fill its Starke County Shelter-Plus-Care beds, has struggled with this in the past. The group offered the name of Joan Hall at the Starke County Council on Aging as a potential resource to contact.
Bruce Lindner – reported that the Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services has a New Freedom’s Grant to expand transportation services to non-traditional hours (from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays) to help the working poor get to and from work. He also reported that the agency is “aging out” two buses soon that may be available for other organizations to use if costs to run/maintain can be covered.
Erin Miller – reported that Christian Community Action’s Front Door project is going well.
Mary Hodson – reported the Porter County Mental Health America’s new Consumer Resource Center is operational; continues to administer the Health Financial Aid program.
Madge Whickar – Said the United Way has eight more Americorp workers available this summer, will start interviewing in September for 10 full-timers. Also announced the UWPC’s first fundraiser at the Porter County Fair next week, a silent auction with nearly 200 items.
Caroline Shook – announced that Housing Opportunities is completing the purchase of an apartment building on McCord Street, and working on a project in LaPorte to assist about 30 people.
Tom Isakson – said that New Creations is having a yard sale this weekend to support operations, and that it has pick-up/delivery services for large items that people want to purchase and/or donate. It also has day labor assistance available for groups needing temporary help.
Carol Nordstrom – reported that she continues to monitor daily dispatches out of Washington, D.C. on the availability of federal dollars that might benefit Porter County.
RG Skadberg – said Christian Community Action is hosting Prayz Dayz on August 15, a fundraiser with Christian music/entertainment at Sunset Hill County Park. He is offering booth space for non-profits to support their efforts.
There is a state housing conference in Indianapolis on September 1 and 2; interested people should contact Caroline Shook for more information.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Franko
Chairman
July 21, 2009
United Way of Porter County
Present: Caroline Shook, Housing Opportunities; Madge Whickar, United Way of Porter County; Erin Miller, Christian Community Action; Darrell Franklin, Christian Community Action; Bruce Lindner, Porter County Aging and Community Services; Mary Hodson, Mental Health America of Porter County; Bill Oeding, City of Valparaiso; Bob Franko, Porter-Starke Services; Tom Isakson, New Creation; Carol Nordstrom, Nordstrom Non-Profits; RG Skadberg, Christian Community Action; Melissa Gard, Porter-Starke Services
A discussion the status of the Campus View Apartments was held. The apartments, located at the corner of Roosevelt and LaPorte Avenue are slated for demolition this fall. Approximately 49 residents were notified and given eviction notices. The City of Valparaiso is working with a group of non-profits to help the residents find alternative housing and other services. Mary Hodson briefed the group on a recent meeting held with local providers, as well as outreach efforts to work with the residents. Bruce Lindner said the Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services may be able to lend some assistance to certain residents meeting specific criteria on the construction of ramps if need be; and also that the agency may be able to help with transportation of residents to look at potential apartments. Bill Oeding said the city is pleased with the cooperation of the non-profit community, and that the city would like to continue to enhance this relationship in order to help others in the future in similar situations. He also talked about the city’s new initiative to inspect apartments in light of the conditions found at Campus View. Mr. Oeding also discussed the city’s desire to have a housing hotline where people can call if they have questions about housing and need assistance. Bob Franko filled Mr. Oeding in on this group’s intent to have a website as a resource for individuals that would serve a similar purpose, and that perhaps the city and the Coalition could collaborate on such a venture.
Caroline Shook updated the group on a new resource in the state (1-877-GET-HOPE) that can help people in danger of foreclosure, or foreclosed upon, find resources and assistance. She said there is information on a mediation process that for people in that situation. Ms. Shook also updated the group on some current statistics that indicate a doubling of the foreclosure rates in the state from a year ago (14 percent).
Each attendee gave a brief update on news from their organizations:
Melissa Gard – said that Porter-Starke is looking to fill its Starke County Shelter-Plus-Care beds, has struggled with this in the past. The group offered the name of Joan Hall at the Starke County Council on Aging as a potential resource to contact.
Bruce Lindner – reported that the Porter County Council on Aging and Community Services has a New Freedom’s Grant to expand transportation services to non-traditional hours (from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays) to help the working poor get to and from work. He also reported that the agency is “aging out” two buses soon that may be available for other organizations to use if costs to run/maintain can be covered.
Erin Miller – reported that Christian Community Action’s Front Door project is going well.
Mary Hodson – reported the Porter County Mental Health America’s new Consumer Resource Center is operational; continues to administer the Health Financial Aid program.
Madge Whickar – Said the United Way has eight more Americorp workers available this summer, will start interviewing in September for 10 full-timers. Also announced the UWPC’s first fundraiser at the Porter County Fair next week, a silent auction with nearly 200 items.
Caroline Shook – announced that Housing Opportunities is completing the purchase of an apartment building on McCord Street, and working on a project in LaPorte to assist about 30 people.
Tom Isakson – said that New Creations is having a yard sale this weekend to support operations, and that it has pick-up/delivery services for large items that people want to purchase and/or donate. It also has day labor assistance available for groups needing temporary help.
Carol Nordstrom – reported that she continues to monitor daily dispatches out of Washington, D.C. on the availability of federal dollars that might benefit Porter County.
RG Skadberg – said Christian Community Action is hosting Prayz Dayz on August 15, a fundraiser with Christian music/entertainment at Sunset Hill County Park. He is offering booth space for non-profits to support their efforts.
There is a state housing conference in Indianapolis on September 1 and 2; interested people should contact Caroline Shook for more information.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Franko
Chairman
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