CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Champaign County is taking a step toward eliminating homelessness, with a new community-led strategic plan aiming to reach functional zero homelessness by 2028.
The Champaign County Continuum of Service Providers to the Homeless (CSPH) is kicking off the planning process with a public town hall on Monday, March 9th from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the iHotel and Conference Center, 1900 South First Street, Champaign. Community members, advocates, elected officials, and individuals with lived experience of homelessness are all encouraged to attend and RSVP.
After homelessness numbers dropped to a low of 137 residents in 2022, post-pandemic trends have pushed that figure to 355 this year — mirroring rises seen across the state and nation.
“As our community has seen an increase in residents experiencing homelessness… CSPH members have been working diligently and collaboratively to grow and improve services,” said Danielle Chynoweth, CSPH chair and Cunningham Township supervisor. “We can get to functional zero homelessness in Champaign County if we pull together — and this strategic plan will provide the blueprint.”
With backing from the State of Illinois and the Office to Prevent and End Homelessness (OPEH), CSPH has brought on Homebase, a national consulting firm, to help forge the plan. Homebase previously supported similar efforts in Springfield, Illinois.
The strategic plan will assess current services, identify gaps, improve coordination among providers, diversify funding, and prioritize solutions informed by those who have experienced homelessness firsthand.
“So many people are dealing with a housing crisis. I have been there myself,” said CSPH Vice Chair Damita Parsley. “People need shelter and support to get to higher ground.”
The town hall will include brainstorming activities, open dialogue, and engagement with homeless service providers. A community survey will also be available for those unable to attend.
CSPH, a 50-member organization serving residents experiencing or at risk of homelessness across Champaign County, encourages all community members to get involved.