The Homelessness & Housing Alliance in Okaloosa and Walton Counties
By Kelli Hernandez, Executive Director
In the picturesque landscapes of Okaloosa and Walton Counties, the Homelessness & Housing Alliance (HHA) is leading a transformative effort to combat homelessness and promote housing stability. As communities across Florida grapple with rising housing costs and increasing numbers of individuals facing homelessness, HHA and its partner agencies continue to strive to provide essential services and advocate for sustainable solutions. Partner agencies across the two-county area create the foundation of support for those experiencing homelessness or who are at imminent risk of homelessness. Partners include emergency shelters, transitional shelters, permanent supportive housing providers, domestic violence shelters, outreach centers, food pantries, faith-based ministries, and dozens more all working under a shared mission of making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.
According to the 2024 Florida Council on Homelessness Annual Report, Florida has seen a significant increase in homelessness, with thousands of individuals and families lacking stable housing. On average, more than 300 individuals at any given point in time are without a safe, stable place to live in Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Annual surveys reveal that in this two-county area, the total number of homeless is represented by 70 families. More than 60 percent of these individuals are chronically homeless, and more than 7 percent are military veterans.
In response, HHA has implemented a multifaceted approach that focuses on prevention, intervention, and long-term solutions. Their work is not just about providing shelter; it’s about fostering a supportive environment that empowers individuals to reclaim their lives.
One of the key strategies employed by HHA is the emphasis on prevention. Studies show that investing in preventive measures is far more cost-effective than addressing the consequences of homelessness. Local governments can save substantial amounts in public safety and emergency room costs by providing support services and housing assistance before individuals fall into homelessness. Average costs for emergency services for a homeless individual can exceed thousands of dollars annually, while supportive housing programs can cost significantly less, ultimately leading to savings for taxpayers.
HHA’s initiatives include a robust outreach program that connects individuals in need with vital resources. By collaborating with local businesses, healthcare providers, and community organizations, HHA ensures that those facing housing instability receive the support they need. Their outreach efforts have led to successful placements of families and individuals into permanent housing, reducing the burden on emergency services.
Moreover, HHA is dedicated to educating the community about the complexities of homelessness and the importance of affordable housing. Bi-monthly stakeholder meetings engage area service providers, law enforcement, government officials, community leaders and concerned citizens in discussions about effective solutions. By fostering a sense of community involvement, HHA is not only addressing immediate needs but also working to change the narrative around homelessness.
The alliance also champions innovative programs that focus on housing-first approaches, which prioritize providing stable housing as a primary strategy for addressing homelessness. This model has proven successful across various regions, leading to higher rates of housing retention and improved overall well-being for participants. By ensuring that individuals have a place to call home, HHA significantly reduces the cycles of homelessness that often trap individuals in a state of crisis.
In addition to direct services, HHA actively advocates for policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels to secure funding and resources for affordable housing initiatives. Their efforts aim to influence legislation that addresses the root causes of homelessness, such as economic disparity and lack of affordable housing options.
The work being done by the Homelessness & Housing Alliance in Okaloosa and Walton Counties is a testament to the power of community action and collaboration. By focusing on prevention, education, and advocacy, HHA is not only changing lives but also paving the way for a more compassionate and inclusive society. As we move forward, it is essential to support and amplify these efforts, ensuring that everyone has a safe place to call home. HHA believes that there is a future where homelessness is addressed not just as a crisis, but as a community challenge that can be solved through collaboration and compassion.
To learn more about HHA or about how to get involved, visit www.hhalliance.org.
