A first-of-its kind initiative in Anchorage, in which 22 entities have joined together in the fight against homelessness, was announced Wednesday at City Hall.

"We've been working hard on this issue in Anchorage for many years," said Mayor Ethan Berkowitz. "What we see here is a convergence of public policy and private resources."

A joint venture called Path to Independence will get 40 households - individuals and whole families - off the streets and into actual homes. Ideally, having housing will become a permanent situation for residents.

"This is a rapid rehousing project, so it's something we're already doing, but now on a larger scale," said Lisa Aquino of Catholic Social Services. "And it's focusing on a group of people we don't typically have a lot of funds to support."

The program is not targeted at the most at-risk, such as those affected by severe mental health issues or addiction. Instead, the benefits will be reaped by those who are already on track, but need a bit of extra help to get into residences, which are set to primarily be spaces provided by Weidner Apartment Homes.

"We believe that people need a hand up," said Greg Cerbana of Weidner Apt. Homes. "Our commitment is - particularly with this project - to get coupled with those folks doing wraparound social services, because that's not our expertise."

Core elements of the program include financial assistance for housing and seeking employment, case management, and actual employment opportunities. Additionally, along with other support and provisions, more than $650,000 is being provided by partners.

The hope is to get the first individuals into housing by July 1 of this year. Because of the partners all coming together for the project, financial assistance will be provided to participants for up to six months; case management services, including access to job training, child care and more, will be provided to participants for up to a year; and "landlords will be asked to provide modest rent considerations for one year."

"To me, this is a moment of pride," said Berkowitz, "about what Anchorage is and the strength of our community, but also a time for us to be hopeful that the steps we take today are steps others emulate."

According to the Anchorage Coalition to End Homelessness, about 1,120 adults, youth and children were homeless in 2017, nearly the same as 2013. If you'd like to help with the ACEH's mission - in addition to simply being kind to people around the community - you can volunteer, join the coalition, donate, and get more information by visiting the group's website

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