Page 26 - LTHC Publics Catalog, Spring 2018 Update

GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS

Responses

West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis
Mayor Dennis was aware of the grants and programs currently in place to provide sup-
port, but believed that there are never enough grants and programs and that money is
currently pretty tight within the community. With regards to any upcoming initiatives,
he said that there is going to be additional assistance from the state, but is unsure of the
timeline for such assistance. His main concern was reaching people who slip through
the gaps in the system, and he did feel as though the criteria someone must meet
to qualify as homeless does affect how many receive government assistance. Per-
sonally, he ensures that policies are comprehensive and inclusive by doing policy reviews
and follow-ups. The number one hurdle to overcome when addressing issues is “the
public stigma of homelessness,” writes Mayor Dennis.

Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski

Mayor Roswarski gave many in-depth answers to our questions. He was also aware of the
many grants and programs in place to help those suffering from homelessness, including
HUD-VASH, which provides rental assistance along with case management and clinical
services for homeless veterans and their families. However, he sees a gap in helping families
affected by homelessness. He did not mention any upcoming initiatives for homelessness,
but did discuss the new engagement center that LTHC is planning. Mayor Roswarski
personally feels that policies need to be focused on “self-sufficiency, moving people
into higher levels of work, higher levels of education, to give them the chance for
long-term sustainability and long-term happiness, and help the next generation.”
However, he was not knowledgeable about the exact criteria someone must meet to qualify
as homeless. He thinks LTHC is doing a great job of being inclusive with individuals experiencing homelessness. The
City of Lafayette has a Shelter Plus Care Program and vouchers through the Lafayette Housing Authority. He feels
that PATH is helping significantly to ensure policies and programs are inclusive enough. As for the gaps that do exist,
he feels “the Northend Community Center and the expansion of Family Promise will help fill some of those gaps.”
Finally, Mayor Roswarski believes the biggest hurdle is providing quality housing with sufficient wrap-
around case management. He hopes overcoming this hurdle can help provide long-term solutions and help
“the next generation break the cycle of poverty.”

24