Last year, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Arcadia received a grant for Homeless Prevention and Diversion, while simultaneously partnering with Union Station Homeless Services. They wanted a program implemented for residents in Arcadia to help out recently homeless Arcadia residents or those at risk of becoming homeless so that they could have somewhere to stay. The end goal of it all was to help them maintain their housing or quickly arrange short-term housing solutions. 

According to the City of Arcadia’s website, more than ever before, during the uncertain times of the pandemic, many residents of Arcadia were struggling to afford their essential household expenses, which is why the City of Arcadia government wanted to do something about it and take action. The City of Arcadia wanted to hold several problem-solving conversations with clients so that it could help people stay in housing or hurry and give them housing when needed.    

Erik Deurmeier has been working with the city program since October 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, and has been a part of the team for almost one year now. He is a manager of the program, as he helps by coordinating outreach from the program and assisting those experiencing homelessness. Not only that, but Deurmeir collaborates with the Arcadia city and county government, community-based organizations, and other non-profit partner agencies. 

“I’m driven to serve and to enhance the lives of others. . . and [provide] health care and safe housing,” he stated. Deurmeir is hoping to encourage communities to support those who are vulnerable and in need and aspires to spread hope to those around him.

To determine who is able to use this program, Union Station will determine who is eligible, as the program is mainly for those that are homeless or at risk of homelessness residents. One of the main requirements is that members have to be living in the City of Arcadia.

Some of the results of this program resulting from having conversations would be resolving conflicts with roommates, helping a client reunite with family members, and providing short-term assistance to prevent eviction. This program will also support electric and other bills, credit checks, as well as housing application fees. 

All in all, the Arcadia Homeless Prevention and Diversion Program was implemented as a way to help out those in need by the Arcadia City Government, which partnered with the Union Station Homeless Service to help improve the lives of many.

Photo courtesy of ARCADIACA.GOV