HB5838: DHS-SHELTER VILLAGE PROGRAM

Legislative Summary

Amends the Department of Human Services Act. Provides that the amendatory Act may be referred to as the Transitional Shelter Village Pilot Program Act. Provides that, subject to appropriation, the Department of Human Services shall establish and administer a transitional shelter village pilot program to provide transitional shelter and housing to individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Requires the Department to use funds appropriated for the pilot program to purchase materials to install a transitional shelter village in an area of the State with a high concentration of persons experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Requires the transitional shelter village to consist of no less than 55 climate-controlled prefabricated shelter units that are purchased from a public benefit corporation with a demonstrable commitment to end unsheltered homelessness. Requires each prefabricated shelter unit to be equipped with certain features. Provides that funds appropriated for the pilot program shall be used to cover the cost of purchasing, assembling, and installing the prefabricated shelter units. Requires the Department to also fund and provide continuous wraparound services aimed at helping residents of the shelter village transition out of homelessness. Requires appropriations made for the pilot program to be deposited into the Transitional Shelter Village Pilot Program Fund. Amends the State Finance Act to create the Transitional Shelter Village Pilot Program Fund. Effective immediately.