Homeward Bound assists records numbers; support their efforts in July at Ultimate Ice Cream

For the fiscal year ending June 2012, Homeward Bound assisted 215 homeless women and men in securing and moving into permanent housing! This is an annual record, breaking last year’s previous record of 203.

Among this 215, there are 104 chronically homeless persons who moved into housing. These are folks who had been homeless for more than a year or had multiple episodes of homelessness during the past several years. They also have one or more disabling conditions, including mental health issues, addiction issues, and physical disabilities.

Needless to say, people who are chronically homeless are the hardest to house and consume the largest percentage of community resources. This is why Homeward Bound's number one priority at Homeward Bound is to end chronic homelessness in our community.

Community partners, donors and key volunteers are a part of the “village” whose collective efforts are ending homelessness in Asheville and Buncombe County.

Homeward Bound is now in year 7 since they established Pathways to Permanent Housing program in response to the 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness. Community support and involvement has helped reduce chronic homelessness by 75 percent.

Enjoy really good ice cream? Stop by Ultimate Ice Cream during July, either on Charlotte Street or on Tunnel Road, and order  a scoop (or more) of the flavor of the month, Sweet Cream and Blueberry Swirl. Proceeds from your purchase will support the programs of Homeward Bound to end homelessness.