There are an estimated 2,500 people experiencing homelessness in Baltimore according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. According to some advocates for the homeless, that number could go up due to recent funding changes from HUD.
In May, HUD decided to discontinue grants to 19 of 21 Baltimore-based homeless services providers. The cuts are part of an overall move by HUD to shift support away from transitional housing towards permanent housing solutions.
Marian House is one of the 19 programs affected by the cuts. In addition to providing shelter, the transitional housing program offers rehabilitation services, life skills training, job readiness and employment assistance to women and children experiencing homelessness.
Katie Allston is the Executive Director of Marian House. Jan Mitchell is an alumna of the program. They join Tom in-studio to talk about why transitional housing programs are important and how the recent cuts will impact Marian House.
On Sept. 24, Marian House will host their annual Independence 5K Walk and Run. Proceeds will go to the continued support of Marian House.
