Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing

The Volusia County Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing (RUSH) program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) written standards, aims to address homelessness by providing rapid re-housing assistance. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to ensure individuals and families can obtain and maintain permanent housing, thereby reducing unsheltered homelessness within the community. The program's foundation is built on offering critical support that facilitates the transition from homelessness to stable living, reflecting a strategic priority to foster housing security. The primary beneficiaries of this program are individuals and families who were homeless prior to Hurricane Ian, became homeless as a result of Hurricane Ian, or whose needs are no longer met by the Temporary Shelter Assistance (TSA) program. The program specifically targets those in Volusia County, with a clear prohibition against serving Flagler County. The impact goal is to provide essential relocation and stabilization services, as well as short-term (up to 3 months) or medium-term (4 to 24 months) rental assistance and case management, to help these vulnerable populations secure permanent housing. The program's priorities and focuses are centered on rapid re-housing, emphasizing swift and effective interventions to move individuals and families out of homelessness. Key components include direct financial assistance for rent, coupled with comprehensive case management to address underlying issues and ensure long-term stability. The program also prioritizes serving the entire Volusia County, ensuring broad access to these vital services while adhering to the Commission on Homelessness and Housing (CoHH) for Volusia and Flagler Counties' written standards, even with the explicit exclusion of Flagler County in service provision. Expected outcomes include a significant reduction in unsheltered homelessness among the target population in Volusia County. Measurable results will be tracked through the number of individuals and families successfully housed, the duration of rental assistance provided, and the effectiveness of case management in fostering self-sufficiency. The program anticipates that beneficiaries will achieve greater housing stability and a reduced likelihood of returning to homelessness. The theory of change posits that by providing immediate housing coupled with supportive services, individuals and families can break the cycle of homelessness and achieve sustainable living. The total funding of $1,175,990, with up to 5% allocated for program administration, will be expended over approximately 20 months from the date agreements are executed, further underscoring the commitment to efficient and impactful resource utilization.