United Way reports success in reducing homelessness in Bartholomew County

The Bartholomew County United Way says that it is making a difference in reducing homelessness in the community and improving the lives of 1,000 residents by lifting them out of poverty.

The agency is updating the community on those initiatives and holding its annual Impact Luncheon on Thursday.

In 2023, the homelessness initiative was launched as a partnership between the United Way, the city of Columbus and other community organizations. The agency says that it is in step 2 of a four step strategy

Magen Pillar, spokeswoman for the agency, explains the progress.

Pillar says the initiative has helped 82 previously homeless individuals secure stable housing and has prevented homelessness for an additional 67 people in Columbus.

Pillar explains some of the efforts underway include a caseworker specifically reaching out to the homeless population:

Pillar says the United Way has worked to streamline the help it provides to those who contact any local agency.

She says the United Way has a case worker who is doing outreach efforts amongst the homeless population, including going to encampments to help people there.

The luncheon will be from 11 to 1 on Thursday at Amazing Joes on Central Avenue. Tickets are $20. You can get more information of sign up at uwbarthco.org