More than 150 people from over 50 organizations began work on the Champaign County Plan to End Homelessness at a kickoff event held March 9. The gathering took place at the Champaign Public Safety Headquarters, Homebase, and the I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center.
The event marked the start of a countywide effort to improve coordination among service providers, assess current resources, and identify gaps in services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Organizers said this process is intended to strengthen support systems and reduce chronic homelessness in Champaign County.
Homebase, an organization contracted by the Champaign County Continuum of Service Providers, presented data and research about local homelessness. Homebase is working with local partners to evaluate existing programs, analyze system performance, and develop recommendations for a comprehensive plan aimed at improving service delivery across the county. The planning process will focus on reducing waitlists for services, strengthening coordination among providers, and ultimately decreasing rates of chronic homelessness.
Attendees participated in interactive activities designed to gather feedback from community stakeholders. Participants shared ideas through written comments on wall posters and during table discussions focused on topics such as lived experience, emergency shelter and outreach, LGBTQ+ services, veterans’ services, racial equity, and co-response models. Feedback collected during the session will help inform the development of the final plan.
The event brought together representatives from local government, nonprofit organizations, service providers, and community advocates committed to addressing homelessness in Champaign County. Notable participants included State Representative Carol Ammons; City of Champaign Deputy City Manager Nancy Rabel; Deputy Mayor Will Kyles; Council Members Michael Follmer, Kathy Shannon, and Bob Pollet; Neighborhood Services Director Rob Kowalski; Community Relations Manager John Ruffin; Equity and Engagement Director Rachel Joy; Co-Response Clinical Manager Dr. Regina Parnell; and Justice Victim Advocate Angela Worthey.
