CHESTERTOWN — World Homeless Day is observed internationally on Oct. 10 to raise awareness about the needs of people experiencing homelessness, promotes work in local communities to alleviate suffering and prevent death secondary to being unhoused, and encourages communities to take action.
It also celebrates local efforts to provide support, benchmark progress, and advocate for policies and resources that help prevent and end homelessness.
Locally, The Shelter Alliance is working to establish a year-round shelter in Kent County, offering wraparound services to help unhoused individuals transition to self-sufficiency.
Safe, accessible shelter is critical, with proximity to services such as mental health, substance use support and community resources.
The Shelter Alliance is getting closer to reaching this goal as it gains the support of local and state officials.
“We are pleased that the Kent County Commissioners announced a proclamation recognizing World Homeless Day for the second year in a row, highlighting the county’s commitment to addressing homelessness,” a news release states.
At the state level, two members of Gov. Wes Moore’s cabinet — Maryland Secretary of Housing and Community Development Jake Day and Maryland Secretary of Planning Rebecca Flora, a Chestertown resident — have expressed their support for this initiative, providing guidance on available funding opportunities, according to the news release.
Today, World Homeless Day 2025, The Shelter Alliance will launch its new website and monthly newsletter to raise awareness and engage the community. A regularly updated report highlights the organization’s accomplishments and ongoing work in the county.
To learn more, visit www.shelteralliancemd.org or email contact@shelteralliance.org.