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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0067.041 2024-2026From: Gideon Ramos Sent: Thursday, January 30, 2025 9:29 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Written Testimony In Support of Resolution 46-25 x January 31, 2025 To our esteemed County Council Members, I am writing to you as the Director of West Hawaii with HOPE Services Hawaii, to submit this written testimony in strong support of Resolution 46-25. 1 would like to express our deep gratitude to the County Council for providing this opportunity to voice our support for the crucial housing and homeless funding provided by the Office of Housing and Community Development. We earnestly hope that the Council wilt vote in favor of passing this resolution, which directly supports our emergency shelter operations in West Hawaii. Without this funding, all 30 individuals currently participating in our shelter program would be at significant risk of becoming homeless and living on the streets once again. At HOPE, our mission is unwavering: Housing First. Over the past several years, this funding has been instrumental in helping individuals experiencing homelessness find temporary shelter and, ultimately, permanent housing. The positive impact on their lives cannot be overstated. Additionally, I would like to highlight the broader benefits of this funding. By securing stable housing for our program participants, we not only improve their quality of life but also contribute to the overall well- being and safety of our community. Stable housing provides a foundation for individuals to rebuild their Lives, access employment opportunities, and receive essential healthcare and social services. We understand the challenges faced by the Council in allocating resources, but we firmly believe that investing in housing and homeless services is a vital step toward creating a stronger, more resilient community. Therefore, we respectfully request your favorable consideration and support for Resolution 46-25. Thank you for your time and for your continued dedication to addressing homelessness in our community. Sincerely, Gideon M. Ramos Director of West Hawaii The Friendly Place Campus I West HI Emergency Shelter Hale Kikaha Housing T 808.935.3050 1 M 808.464.2615 gramos(&hopeserviceshawaii.org o ��"