I am writing to inform the community of an urgent and heartbreaking reality.
Due to the recent decision by Lewis County commissioners to withhold Consolidated Housing Grant (CHG) funds, Hope Alliance, Lewis County’s only accredited domestic violence and sexual assault program, is expected to close its doors by the end of October. The loss of CHG funds exacerbates an already precarious situation stemming from severe budget cuts on the state and federal level
For years, Hope Alliance has served our community 24/7, providing shelter, advocacy and a path forward for survivors of violence. With an 89 percent success rate in helping clients attain affordable and sustainable housing, our impact has been both measurable and life-changing. Without CHG funding, we cannot sustain these critical services, nor can we help our clients to obtain or retain housing.
This is not just about an organization. It is about the safety, dignity and future of survivors who live and work in our community. The loss of Hope Alliance would leave a dangerous gap in services that no other agency is equipped to fill.
We urge the public and our local leaders to reconsider this decision and stand with survivors by restoring this essential funding. Hope Alliance has always shown up for Lewis County. Now we are asking Lewis County to show up for us.
Sincerely,
Kris Camenzind
Executive director of Hope Alliance
Editor’s note: Lewis County commissioners have discussed potentially rejecting some Consolidated Housing Grant funds, but a decision has not been voted on. Read previous reporting here.
