What's Happening?
The city of Norman's homeless support service, 'A Better Way,' is shutting down at the end of August after its request for new funding from the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office was denied. The program, operated by Mental Health Association Oklahoma in partnership
with the city, offered individuals experiencing homelessness opportunities to work cleaning public spaces. In exchange, participants received pay, meals, and connections to service providers. According to Carrie Blumert, CEO of Mental Health Association Oklahoma, the program aimed to provide instant income and a pathway to self-sufficiency, with a long-term goal of helping participants find housing and stability. The initial one-year contract for 'A Better Way' was valued at $383,633, with $333,633 sourced from Opioid Settlement Funds. During its operation, the program served 232 participants, connecting 54 with mental health or substance abuse services, helping 25 secure gainful employment, assisting 17 with housing, and obtaining vital documents for 28 individuals.
Why It's Important?
The closure of 'A Better Way' significantly impacts Norman's already strained homeless support services, exacerbating a deepening homelessness crisis in the city. This comes after recent displacements caused by Governor Kevin Stitt’s 'Operation SAFE,' which affected 30 to 50 individuals in May, and the temporary shutdown of the Norman Night Shelter in June due to a complaint. Unlike Oklahoma City, which received up to $800,000 for housing and support services following 'Operation SAFE,' Norman was not offered similar assistance. The program's cessation removes a crucial resource that provided a structured alternative to panhandling and a direct route to employment and essential services for vulnerable populations. The loss of 'A Better Way' means fewer immediate opportunities for income and connection to support systems, potentially increasing visible homelessness and related social challenges in the community.
What's Next?
With 'A Better Way' ceasing operations, Norman faces the immediate challenge of addressing the gap in services for its homeless population. While Norman officials, through Chief Communications Officer Tiffany Martinez Vrska, stated that the program's conclusion does not reflect a reduced commitment to addressing homelessness, the practical implications of losing a direct employment and support initiative are substantial. The city will need to explore alternative strategies or secure new funding for similar programs to mitigate the impact on individuals experiencing homelessness. The ongoing 'Operation SAFE' sweeps, which have led to arrests and further displacement, suggest a continued enforcement-focused approach, contrasting with the supportive model of 'A Better Way.' The long-term effectiveness of Norman's homelessness strategy will depend on its ability to implement sustainable and comprehensive support services.
Beyond the Headlines
The situation in Norman highlights a broader national challenge regarding funding and approaches to homelessness. The denial of funding for a program like 'A Better Way' raises questions about the allocation of resources, particularly Opioid Settlement Funds, and the prioritization of different strategies for addressing social issues. The contrast between 'A Better Way's' rehabilitative, work-oriented model and 'Operation SAFE's' displacement and enforcement approach underscores a philosophical divide in tackling homelessness. The success stories from 'A Better Way,' such as Shelli Markcum's journey to sobriety and employment, demonstrate the potential of programs that offer dignity and practical support. The closure could lead to increased reliance on emergency shelters and crisis services, potentially straining existing resources and hindering long-term solutions for individuals seeking to exit homelessness.
