Liberty Resources awarded $1.2 million in grants for supportive housing programs in Onondaga and Cortland counties

SYRACUSE, NY (February 29, 2024) — In a major stride towards addressing housing challenges for vulnerable communities, Liberty Resources has been awarded $1.2 million in grant funding from the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) for the development of programs in Onondaga and Cortland counties.

Approximately $750,000 of the funding is earmarked for constructing a 60-unit housing complex in Onondaga County, with half of these units designated for adults diagnosed with serious mental health concerns, substance use disorders, and HIV/AIDS.  The remaining grant funding, approximately $500,000, will be allocated to establishing a 40-unit housing complex in Cortland County, where half of the units will be reserved for senior citizens aged 55 and above requiring assistance with daily living activities.  Individuals residing in the supportive living units will have access to on-site staff who will provide connections to vocational training, employment support, behavioral healthcare, and other vital community resources.

“This grant supports our mission of providing safe and secure housing options for vulnerable Central New Yorkers alongside resources that bolster their independence and well-being.,” said Marta Durkin, Vice President of Liberty Resources’ Behavioral Health Services.  “We are pleased to be a part of Governor Hochul’s commitment to increasing these services across the state.”

Liberty Resources currently operates 12 residential programs across Central New York that support individuals living with serious mental health diagnoses, substance use disorders, and HIV / AIDS.  The agency recently received a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Demonstration (CCBHC-D) designation from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for its Integrated Health Clinics in Syracuse and Fulton. CCBHC-D is a specially designated clinic that provides a comprehensive array of behavioral healthcare services, including mental health, outpatient substance use, crisis intervention, and care coordination.  Liberty Resources is also a Federally Qualified Health Center, which is awarded to community-based providers that offer comprehensive healthcare services to underserved populations while meeting rigorous quality standards.

ESSHI is a vital program that addresses housing needs for vulnerable populations across New York State.  It not only provides funding for construction but also supports the integration of essential services such as healthcare, vocational training, and community resources, ensuring residents receive comprehensive support to thrive in their homes.