On Monday, March 9, more than 150 individuals representing over 50 organizations gathered at the Champaign Public Safety Headquarters (CSPH), Homebase, and the I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center to kick off the development of the Champaign County Plan to End Homelessness. The event marked an important first step in a collaborative, countywide effort to strengthen coordination among service providers, assess current resources, and identify gaps in services that impact individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
As part of the event, representatives from Homebase—an organization contracted by the Champaign County Continuum of Service Providers—presented data and research on homelessness in Champaign County. Homebase is working with local partners to evaluate existing programs, analyze system performance, and develop recommendations for a comprehensive plan aimed at improving service delivery across the county. The planning process will focus on reducing waitlists for services, strengthening coordination among providers, and ultimately decreasing rates of chronic homelessness.
Attendees participated in a variety of interactive activities designed to gather feedback from community stakeholders. Participants shared ideas and recommendations through written comments on wall posters and during facilitated table discussions. These conversations focused on several key topic areas connected to CSPH and its subcommittees, including Lived Experience, Emergency Shelter and Outreach, LGBTQ+ services, Veterans’ services, Racial Equity, and Co-Response Models. Feedback collected during the session will help inform the development of the final plan and ensure that it reflects the needs and perspectives of community members and service providers alike.
The kickoff event brought together representatives from local government, nonprofit organizations, service providers, and community advocates committed to addressing homelessness in Champaign County. Participants included State Representative Carol Ammons; City of Champaign Deputy City Manager Nancy Rabel, Deputy Mayor Will Kyles, and Council Members Michael Follmer, Kathy Shannon, and Bob Pollet; Neighborhood Services Director Rob Kowalski; Community Relations Manager John Ruffin; Equity and Engagement Director Rachel Joy; Co-Response Clinical Manager Dr. Regina Parnell; and Justice Victim Advocate Angela Worthey.