Maryland’s Joint Committee on Ending Homelessness met to discuss solutions and hear pertinent updates from state departments.
In its first meeting since a new iteration, Maryland’s Joint Committee on Ending Homelessness convened to end and prevent homelessness in the state. Unlike many initiatives that focus on mitigation, this committee emphasizes permanent solutions rather than just alleviating its symptoms. The committee is a collaborative body tasked with coordinating public resources, enhancing program effectiveness, and aligning policies to prevent and end homelessness at the state and local levels.
Maryland’s Joint Committee on Ending Homelessness was established in 2015 by state legislation. Senator Jill Carter serves as the Chair. The committee currently has 11 members: eight senators appointed by the Senate President and three delegates appointed by the House Speaker. The committee studies issues such as housing, income, health care, education, government support, and veterans experiencing homelessness.
Committee members gathered to hear updates and insights from:
- Secretary Jake Day, Secretary of Housing & Community Development
- Danielle Meister, Assistant Secretary for the Division of Homeless Solutions
- Carnitra White, Principal Deputy Secretary, Department of Human Services
- Ernestina Simmons, LCSW–C, Director of the Baltimore City Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services
- Kevin Lindamood, President and CEO of Health Care for the Homeless
Each presentation reinforced the necessity of a multifaceted approach, wherein housing, human services, and healthcare systems collaborate seamlessly to meet the varied needs of Maryland’s homeless population.
The Joint Committee aims to address gaps in services and ensure that every Marylander has access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. The Joint Committee will continue to explore strategies and innovations to end homelessness.
