The Office of Community Safety (OCS) recently held a Community Resource Roundtable, bringing together local organizations to discuss challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Prince William County, Manassas City, and Manassas Park. The event was facilitated by Community Safety Advisory Committee Members Joyce Connery and Nancy Lyall. The discussion focused on the need for collaboration, resource coordination, and data-driven strategies to support at-risk individuals and families.
The meeting opened with an emphasis on developing a collective strategy to address gaps in housing and utility support services. Participants recognized that despite the efforts of many organizations providing essential services, limited resources often leave some individuals without help. Representatives from over 15 organizations committed to working together more intentionally and proposed creating a shared strategy for resource deployment.
Shelter access and affordable housing were significant topics of discussion. Attendees highlighted the necessity for innovative housing solutions and stronger relationships with landlords. OCS introduced its resource dashboard aimed at centralizing community resources, which received broad support for its potential to provide accessible information.
Candice Stancil from The Department of Social Services presented an overview of the Coordinated Care program aligned with Prince William County Government parameters for housing and utility assistance. She explained the role of the regional call center that assists residents with emergency shelter, rental support, and referrals.
OCS also proposed a data tracking system to better identify needs related to mental health services, job training, and homelessness prevention. This system aims to ensure equitable service distribution through shared data. Feedback from attendees showed interest in implementing this system for increased transparency.
The roundtable addressed panhandling issues by considering equity and long-term impact strategies independently. As challenges like housing instability continue in the region, participants left the meeting with a united purpose: improving systemic barriers through cohesive work among community partners.
Organizations such as Human Services Alliance, Catholic Charities, ACTS, Salvation Army, Dar Al Noor, Poetry Ending Poverty, Savida Health participated in the event. They look forward to reconvening at the next Community Resource Roundtable on May 28th at CHINN Park Library.
