Mid City Times

Fort Worth City Council has taken a significant step in addressing the city's homelessness crisis by approving a contract with My Health My Resources (MHMR) of Tarrant County for a high-impact pilot program. The program, aimed at reducing homelessness in targeted areas, comes at a crucial time as homelessness has increased in Fort Worth following the end of the eviction moratorium and federal emergency rental assistance funds.

The initiative, which focuses on directing resources to seven identified hard-hit areas, includes provisions such as street outreach teams, neighborhood police officers, and the City’s Homeless Outreach Program & Enforcement (HOPE) team to refer individuals in need. As stated, "With the end of the eviction moratorium and federal emergency rental assistance funds, homelessness has increased in Fort Worth."

The pilot program prioritizes providing low barrier housing and voluntary case management to those referred, with a particular emphasis on individuals with severe mental illness. According to the plan, "The pilot program will offer low barrier housing and voluntary case management to referred individuals."

For individuals requiring a more intensive approach, the program offers a transition to the care of the Housing First Assertive Community Treatment Team. This team is dedicated to working with individuals with severe mental illness, both on the streets and in housing, who require more intensive services to maintain stable housing. As mentioned, "Those who need a more intensive approach would transition to the care of the Housing First Assertive Community Treatment Team."

The success of the pilot program will be measured by ensuring that at least 70% of those offered housing are able to secure housing within six months. This performance measure reflects the program's commitment to making a tangible impact on the issue of homelessness in Fort Worth. In conclusion, "The pilot program’s performance measures will be that at least 70% of those offered housing enter housing within six months."