On October 25, 2022 the Greenville Police Department held a community meeting discussing the population of unhoused residents in Greenville and proposing solutions to help these individuals. In attendance was the Tri County Board, members of Family Health, Darke County Health Department, CAP, Fish Choice Pantry, EUM Church and various others across the county.
The Greenville Police Department handed out pictures of the Broadway Bridge showing the current condition and what it looks like after being cleaned by officers and the Street Department. Members from Family Health emphasized how they help the unhoused population by trying to find them employment, providing clothes, phones and appointments along with MAT, Medication Assistance Treatment. However, they cannot make these individuals use the resources provided. Literature about these programs can be found in the Greenville Police Department lobby and City Building lobby.
A representative from EUM Church expressed that the Church has used $40,000 of their money trying to help the unhoused population and those coming into the church explaining that they are currently unhoused. Darke County Ministers Association has also contributed $40,000 to help fight this prolonging issue in the community. A reminder was mentioned that the unhoused community can stay at the homeless shelter, although there is a 30 day maximum stay limit and it is always filled to capacity.
Fish Choice Pantry was additional in attendance and wanted the public to know they are located at 400 Markwith Ave. and open on Mondays from 1-1PM, Wednesdays 10-11AM and Fridays from 4-5PM where individuals can come in and pick out their own food. The food pantry gives them food that is easily able to eat without kitchen appliances.
Additionally the Tri County Board reminded everyone in attendance that “nobody needs to be homeless if they do not choose to” and mentioned as well that homelessness is related to trauma. They brought up the fact that there are 14 buildings across 3 Counties. In these recovery homes individuals have to stay completely clean to continue living there. Greenville currently has 2 not at capacity. Tri County Board funds community housing which gives out resources such as a crisis hotline and ohiorecoveryhousing.org which gives a list of recovery houses in the area. Residents can also call ‘211’.
Ryan Delk and Law Director Mike Rieman mentioned that there are over 500 jobs available in Darke County. Therefore, may opportunities for unhoused individuals to receive employment in the area. Both also are very aware of the current issue and want to address it from all sides. The Darke County Health Department also noted that they work with CAP and Social Services to try and get people housing after being evicted.
The Greenville Police Department along with the other county organizations see the unhoused population as an issue in the city of Greenville. All previously mentioned parties are working to help unhoused individuals and families by providing resources talked about throughout this media release. However, individuals have to be willing to receive the help and resources mentioned above.