Governor Creates West Virginia Interagency Council On Homelessness

Council will work to improve the lives of people who are experiencing homelessness

June 15, 2007 -- CHARLESTON - West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin today announced the creation of the West Virginia Interagency Council on Homelessness (WVICH), which will develop and deliver services to help those experiencing homelessness. In addition, this council will create a statewide plan with short-term and long-term strategies to end homelessness.

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“More people are closer to being homeless than we realize,” the governor said. “Many families are one paycheck from losing their homes. If we truly want to end homelessness, then we must start understanding what causes it in the first place. We need to use our resources efficiently and effectively. This council will examine these issues and look for innovative ways to improve the lives of individuals who are struggling with homelessness.”

The governor will appoint the members of the council, including representatives from the public, private and government sectors as well as two individuals who have or are currently experiencing homelessness.

In May 2004, an interagency council was created to address homelessness. However, since its creation, the needs of the homeless and those at-risk have evolved. As a result, Gov. Manchin created the WVICH to proactively coordinate programs, services and strategies to improve the lives of people who are experiencing homelessness.

Source: West Virginia Governor