Group looks to help homeless

Published 10:00 am Thursday, February 10, 2022

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A new organization is looking to help the homeless.

Love Over Crisis LLC has requested a zoning amendment change to the county’s ordinance that would allow a Temporary Emergency Housing Program for single adults in Charlotte Court House.

The zoning amendment would be needed due to the shelter looking to locate in the County’s General Agriculture Zoning District.

In an email, Love Over Crisis CEO Shelley Mays-Couch said there have been concerns about medical services, mental health services, transportation, medical transportation, nutrition services, substance abuse services access, spiritual guidance, employment support and training.

According to Mays-Couch, 95% of Charlotte County is zoned as Agricultural, and if passed, the zoning amendment will allow more businesses to develop similar services within the rural community.

Mays-Couch said many individuals are on the edge of homelessness and may be doubled up with friends and relatives or paying extremely high proportions of their resources for rent, putting those individuals in survival mode non-stop.

“Lack of support for homeless individuals in rural areas can be one reason for the substance abuse epidemic in Charlotte County and other rural areas and an increase in mental illness,” Mays- Couch said.

As part of the organization’s request, the Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, Feb.15, at 7:05 pm, at the County Administration Office to hear public comments or concerns about the proposed shelter.