Public input wanted for potential pallet homes village in Milford
MILFORD, Del. – “We get calls a couple times a week asking what kind of shelters are available in Milford. They ask what they can do and what kind of choices do they have. It’s the saddest conversation we have with people and telling them that we don’t have any offerings,” Gery said.
That’s the challenge Martha Gery with the Milford Advocacy for the Homeless said the city’s up against as they’re seeing an increasing number of people without a place to call home. “So, they end up being homeless, living either out of a camper or living out of their cars. That’s a growing population of seniors,” Gery said.
MAH’s goal is to connect with individuals in the community before they become homeless through a variety of outreach services from food assistance, workforce development, and case management.
A possible solution could be on the horizon, as the City of Milford could be the next area to see a pallet homes project by the Springboard Collaborative. The transitional housing community connects participants with a variety of health care services and other resources. “Being in a pallet village also helps them to get those services that they’re probably already eligible for but just haven’t been able to either access or weren’t aware of them,” Gery said. “All of a sudden, they don’t have to be under duress every single day thinking about where they’re going to sleep, where they’re going to get food from. and where they’re going to get services. It’s all provided for them as an umbrella to that person.”
Mayor Archie Campbell supports the project. He’s hoping the city can see the same success in areas with existing villages like Georgetown. “21 of the 49 people in the program have full-time jobs already. I think 10 or 11 have part-time jobs. It seems to be working there,” Mayor Campbell said.
Before any decisions are made, Mayor Campbell said it’s crucial that they hear from the community. “That’s why we’re having this open house is to get feedback from the community. We’ll see if the community is positive or negative,” Mayor Campbell said.
Mayor Campbell told us he’s heard concerns from many in the community who fear the project could impact their property values. He said that’s actually not the case, adding that property values in Georgetown actually saw an increase.
Mayor Campbell also said the city is still searching for the right land for the project which is another reason why community input is needed. He told us the chosen location must meet certain criteria for the Springboard Program and anticipates no city funds will be used.
MAH is in support of the project and told us they look forward to collaborating with the Springboard Collaborative in any way possible.
There will be a public hearing at the next city council meeting this Monday, January 22nd.
