White Earth RBC declares a homelessness emergency on reservation

The White Earth Reservation Business Committee unanimously passed a Resolution today declaring a Homelessness Emergency on the White Earth Reservation in response to the number of homeless individuals on the reservation.

The WERBC recognizes that many individuals and families are considered homeless and at times encounter circumstances that alter their ability to provide the basic needs of their households and compounds the negative impacts of many barriers already faced by many within the community - including substance abuse, mental illness and poverty.

White Earth programs have been working to prevent homelessness and maintain stable housing for individuals, families, youth and veterans. The White Earth Homeless Program provides housing assistance and emergency hotel vouchers for rooms and meals to individuals and families. In addition to outside agencies that have the potential to provide substantial assistance, the WERBC envisions an adult shelter that offers services.

The WERBC directs that all White Earth agencies and entities, including but not limited to the White Earth Housing Authority, Law Enforcement, Economic Development, Human Services, Legal, Mental Health and Community Councils, to continue to meet and work collaboratively towards solutions to the in-depth and complex problems caused by homelessness.