Homeless Services
It is recognized that there is no single cause for homelessness. Rather, this condition is most likely precipitated by a variety of factors such as unemployment/underemployment, personal and family difficulties, substance abuse, family violence, lack of affordable housing options, mental health issues or a combination of these or other factors. The goals of the Homeless Services provided by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources are:
- to fairly assess each applicant's request for assistance under the Homeless Program
- to provide emergency food, shelter, and medical care in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of those receiving services
- to work in cooperation with the individual or family toward self-sufficiency, with both the DHHR and the individual/family assuming a role and responsibility in the outcome
- to work in cooperation with state and local agencies and organizations to develop and utilize resources to meet the needs of homeless individuals and families
To achieve these goals, the Department of Health and Human Resources has contracted with several agencies statewide to provide Homeless Services. In addition, these agencies also provide a wide range of supportive services directly or through cooperative arrangements with resources within their community.
Eligibility criteria
In order to be eligible to receive homeless services, the individual must meet the following criteria:
- Be eighteen (18) years of age or older or an emancipated minor or members of
- an eligible family group;
- Meet the definition of homeless;
- Lack sufficient resources to obtain emergency shelter, medical, or food.
