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CR -25 - Homeless and Other Special Needs 91.220(d, e); 91.320(d, e); 91.520(c) Evaluate the jurisdktion's progress n meeting its specific objectives for reducing and ending homelessness through: Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons and assessing their individual needs The County of Hawaii continues to use several strategies to provide outreach in each of the rural communities. County representatives and non-profit agencies conduct the annual Point in Time count in January of each year (869 persons). The Point n Time count is an intensive canvassing of various areas throughout the island where unsheltered homeless congregate including, but not limited to beaches, parks, forest and brush, mountain topography including caves, campgrounds, bus stops, public benches and urban sidewalks. In 2018, the State of Hawaii registered a 9.6% overall decrease in the numbers of homeless individuals from 7,Z2Opersons inZB17to6,S3Opersons in2O18. The County also participates in various community eventsuch as the monthly Hoowaiwai Network Weaver's meeting, the monthly Community Alliance Partners Meeting, the Annual Homeless Awareness Luncheon in HIo and Kona and the monthly Hui Laulima at the Saivation Army in Kona. At these events, information about homeless services and resources that are available are disseminated to the attendees. n addition, information is provided through the Food L3ank as part of the monthly pantry and emergency food distribution programs. Individuals who are experiencing homelessness have multiple barriers, which may include but is not limited to — no support or lack of adequate support from family or friends, lack of reliable transportaUon, mental or physicat disabilities and not knowledgeabte about navigating the system of private and public resources. HOPE Services Hawaii, Neihborhood Place of Puna and the Neighborhood Place of Kona continues to provide outreach services, meeting individuals and families in their place of living, providing information, resources and services as needed or requested. It is crucia that funding for critical outreach staffing continues to be supported by federal programs. In addition, funding for staff/program vehicles is also essential. Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons In December 2016, the construction of 23 units were completed at Hale Kikaha Iocated in Kailua Kona. The facility was designed to provide permanent housing for the most vulnerable single individuals who met the definition of a chronic homeless person and continues to house 23 chronically homeless persons. The project also includes a set aside of 4 units for HUD VASH (Veteran Assisted Supportive Housing) voucher holders. HOPE Services continues to provide supportive services to the Hale Kikaha tenants. As required by HUD and State program funders, the Community Alliance Partners is actively working on CAPER 19 OMS Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)