BETHLEHEM, Pa. – In the city of Bethlehem, homelessness has become a pressing issue.
Last month, individuals were moved out of a tent encampment along the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks. Over at New Bethany Ministries, staff told 69 News they see a lot of those folks come through to get a meal.
“The demand is extremely high. Our numbers are getting higher and higher,” said Asst. Executive Director Veronne Demesyeux.
Demesyeux said recent federal developments, like new SNAP eligibility requirements and the expiration of affordable care act subsidies aren’t helping.
“Unfortunately, there has always been a demand for our services, but due to the current climate that we’re in, people are losing benefits, and that has created and increase in the demand,” said Demesyeux.
To meet that demand, the City of Bethlehem is receiving $400,000 to help expand street outreach and rapid rehousing programs. New Bethany is also receiving $475,000 to help fund a renovation of more than 18,000 square feet in its drop-in center, where it will soon offer mental health services and a community hygiene center.
The grants were secured in part by State Sen. Lisa Boscola, who said in a statement:
“Housing affordability in the Lehigh Valley is a critical issue that is best addressed in a collaborative way and state support for… New Bethany’s programs to address residents’ needs… will have a positive impact on our community.”
Demesyeux said that impact will help change the lives of the people they serve.
“Support like this allows us to re-imagine the future of New Bethany, because we are simply out of room,” said Demesyeux.