New approach being taken
to combat homelessness in Orleans County

In addition to providing shelter, Orleans County’s new Visions – Transitional Housing for the Homeless, will attempt to provide residents with the skills necessary to move toward economic self-sufficiency.

"We will work with the individual families toward the goals they set for themselves," Neomi Alvarado, Family Support Program Administrator for Rural Opportunities said. "Whether it's employment training, recovery programs or life skills, we will try to assist them."

The nine-unit development, the first of its kind in the area, will be located at Lydun Drive Extension in Albion (site of former Otter Creek Apartments). The project is spearheaded by Rural Opportunities Inc. and the Orleans County Continuum of Care, a coalition of community based organizations and government agencies. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is providing funding over a three-year period.

"Visions offers a supportive setting where homeless people can put their lives back together," Velma Smith, executive director of ROI’s New York Division said. "Residents will be required to hold a job, keep house and fulfill the same responsibilities as any other tenant, but will have help in developing the skills necessary to successfully take their place in the community."

The maximum length of stay in the program is two years, she said, and individuals will be charged rent on a sliding scale, based on income. There will be a staff of four on hand to offer appropriate counseling and training to the residents.

The development consists of six three-bedroom townhouse style apartments, one of which is configured for three single tenants, one single level unit designed for the physically disabled and one office/community center.

The ARC of Orleans is one of the member agencies of the Orleans County Continuum of Care. "We are very aware there is a need for this type of residence," ARC’s Executive Director Don Colquhoun said. "We’re thrilled it’s opening… we’ve been supportive of the project since they began their original planning for it."

A grand opening for the unit was scheduled for Friday, February 1. For information on the program or eligibility requirements, contact Visions at 589-7246.