HJ219: Commending Branching out for the Homeless.
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 219
WHEREAS, Branching out for the Homeless, a partnership between Loudoun County Public Library and Loudoun County Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services, received a National Association of Counties Achievement Award for Libraries in 2019; and
WHEREAS, one of only nine library programs in the Commonwealth to be recognized by the National Association of Counties in 2019, the award is a testament to the success of the Branching out for the Homeless initiative, which helps provide resources to people challenged by uncertain living conditions; and
WHEREAS, Loudoun County Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services staff working to implement the Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) program collaborated with the Loudoun County Public Library (LCPL) to improve its ability to reach members of the county’s homeless community; and
WHEREAS, since many homeless individuals already utilize LCPL resources, the Branching out for the Homeless partnership made it easier for these individuals to engage with staff carrying out the PATH program; and
WHEREAS, through weekly “Homeless Outreach Drop-In” events held at the Rust Library in Leesburg since July 2017, the Branching out for the Homeless partnership has already helped over 120 people either enter the PATH program or connect with services suitable for their particular situations; and
WHEREAS, through its ingenuity and dedication, the Branching out for the Homeless partnership has supported countless individuals and families, helping them access the beneficial services they need to find a stable home; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Branching out for the Homeless, a partnership between Loudoun County Public Library and Loudoun County Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services, for receiving the National Association of Counties Achievement Award for Libraries in 2019; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Branching out for the Homeless as an expression of the General Assembly’s admiration and respect for the partnership’s efforts to end homelessness in Loudoun County and the Commonwealth.