Connecting Families to Essential Resources and Services
Established in 1995 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the St. Johns County Continuum of Care (COC) is dedicated to addressing homelessness within the community. The re-housing program focuses on assisting families and individuals in finding stable, permanent housing, guiding them through the application process, and providing financial assistance when necessary.
Additionally, transitional housing programs offer temporary accommodations, providing a safe space where they can receive support while working toward more permanent solutions.
Providing Multiple Grants Through a Collaborative Partnership
UF Health is the lead agency for the St. Johns County Continuum of Care, bringing its healthcare expertise and community resources to the forefront of the initiative. The hospital collaborates with various local organizations and service providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to homelessness in the region. Through this collaborative effort, the COC offers several grants that support its mission, including the Challenge Grant, Emergency Solutions Grant, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
These grants are instrumental in funding various programs and services, and they are received by key organizations such as The Betty Griffin Center, which supports survivors of domestic violence; St. Johns County Health and Human Services, which offers a range of public health and social services; St. Francis House, a nonprofit that provides shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness; and the Homeless Coalition of St. Johns County, which advocates for and provides resources to those experiencing homelessness.