Newsmakers: PRISM Adds Position to Help People Find Housing
PRISM program director Allysen Hoberg says people need help more than ever navigating housing systems.
“Our numbers have gone way, way up. Our phone is ringing off the hook,” said Hoberg. “We’re definitely seeing a rise in the numbers of people who are calling and looking for housing.”
Hoberg says people who are living in their car or a hotel will call looking for help. Sometimes their condition has become more unpredictable because of complications due to the pandemic.
PRISM will add a new position this spring who will help with housing ahead of the expiring eviction moratorium. Part of the position is funded by the city of Golden Valley. The person will advocate for housing needs as well as take calls and help fill out applications, which is often a time-intensive process.
“It can take a very long time to assist a person moving, whether it’s into a more affordable location or moving from not being housed. It takes a lot of work, and is very time-intensive,” said Hoberg.
Allysen Hoberg, PRISM program director
But Hoberg says it can be fulfilling, particularly when giving people the good news that there’s help.
“It’s very rewarding and when people find out that we’re going to pay their rent, or they got accepted for an apartment, many times there are tears that fall. When we are able to help, that’s great,” said Hoberg. “Housing is a right, it’s a human right.”
Hoberg says the Golden Valley nonprofit hopes to have the position filled by the time the eviction moratorium expires on June 1. For more information, click here.
