Neighborhoods Inc. of Battle Creek is taking over operations of the St. Joseph County HARA. Previously operating out of Keystone Place in Centreville, the St. Joseph County HARA will be located in Neighborhood Inc.’s Satellite Office in the Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County Office building, located at 240 W Main St. in Centreville.
As Keystone focuses its services on providing shelter to those currently experiencing homelessness, NIBC is taking over the operation of the HARA to alleviate the burden on Keystone Staff.
Neighborhoods Inc. of Battle Creek has acted as the Calhoun County Housing Assessment Resource Agency (HARA) since early 2021. In the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year, the Calhoun County HARA provided hotel vouchers totaling $27,489, rental assistance totaling $433,306, and security deposits totaling $8,283, with a total of $471,483 in rental housing assistance provided to Calhoun County through grant opportunities funded by MSHDA and the City of Battle Creek.
“Acquiring the St. Joseph County HARA marks a pivotal moment in addressing the housing needs of this community,” Whitney Wardell, president & CEO of Neighborhoods Inc. of Battle Creek, said. “It represents our dedication to ensuring that every resident has access to safe and affordable housing. With NIBC’s arrival, we aim to tackle homelessness, educate the community, and foster an environment where families can thrive.”
Laura Brott, the St. Joseph County Housing Task Force chair, a task force of the St. Joseph County Human Services Commission and the local planning body of the Balance of State Continuum of Care said, ”The St. Joseph County Housing Task Force welcomes Neighborhoods Inc. to our county and is excited to work toward our shared goal of making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring. We look forward to all of the good work that will be accomplished together.”
Under Neighborhoods Inc. of Battle Creek, the Housing Assessment Resource Agency of St. Joseph County will provide a centralized intake and housing assessment, providing communitywide and comprehensive assistance through rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention services.
Individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or in danger of becoming homeless in St. Joseph County should now contact Neighborhoods Inc. at 269-234-5023 or email at [email protected] for HARA services.
