February 16, 2023

DC’s largest homeless encampment in McPherson Square is scheduled to be cleared by the end of this week, but because of staffing shortages, only a handful of residents have received housing assistance ahead of the deadline. “We have the resources to end chronic homelessness now, but we’re not able to capitalize on it because of the staff pipeline issue,” said Christy Respress, CEO, and president of Pathways to Housing DC. 

Residents from East Palestine, Ohio, worry whether it’s safe to return home after a 150-car train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed earlier this month. Although authorities claim it’s safe to return, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources noted the chemical has killed an estimated 3,500 small fish across the area. Residents fear they, their animals, and water sources were exposed to hazardous chemicals.  

In 2022, it took the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) 182 days to turn around units, but that number has doubled to 399 days at the start of this year. Needed repairs and upgrades have exacerbated these delays. “Along with staff and funding constraints, it means that we are not turning over apartments as quickly as we would like,” said NYCHA chief operating officer Eva Trimble. 

Vermont’s Healthy Homes Initiative is awarding 12.6 million to improve water systems in 36 manufactured housing communities. The funds will repair and replace existing water and sewer systems and assess what other infrastructure work is needed. “Through this round of funding, an estimated 3,975 residents—including 1,100 seniors and 830 children—will be able to more reliably access safe drinking water, and will be served by improved wastewater, stormwater, and drainage systems, protecting both them and the environment,” said Governor Phil Scott.