United Way of Bartholomew County Reports Major Strides in Reducing Homelessness

The United Way of Bartholomew County has released a major progress update on its initiative to make homelessness in the community “rare, brief, and non-recurring.” Backed by local support and a strategic shift toward root-cause solutions, the organization announced tangible progress—and an unwavering commitment to do more.
Since launching its targeted homelessness initiative, the organization has:

• Helped 51 families transition from unsheltered living into permanent housing
• Intervened to stabilize 41 families before they lost their homes
• Delivered critical housing assistance to 226 families

“These are not just numbers—they represent real people in our community who now have a roof over their heads and a path toward stability,” said Mark Stewart, President of United Way of Bartholomew County. “Our goal is to build a system that prevents homelessness in the first place and helps people rebound quickly if it happens.”

Rooted in Community and DataThe 2024 strategy combines research, community input, and proven national best practices. Through public forums and surveys, United Way gathered direct feedback from residents experiencing housing insecurity. That feedback now drives four major strategies:

1. Prevention-focused solutions: Rent stabilization efforts, tenant education programs, and early intervention to stop homelessness before it starts.
2. Rapid response: A dedicated homelessness response team now works directly with individuals in crisis and those on the brink of losing their housing.
3. Permanent affordable housing: Advocacy and support for long-term, accessible housing development.
4. Best practice integration: Learning from successful models across the country to build a system tailored to Bartholomew County’s unique needs.

Real Stories, Real Results A video released by the organization features three families who’ve benefitted directly from these efforts. “We are currently helping about two families every week,” Stewart noted, “so these numbers change fast. But what doesn’t change is the impact behind each one.”

​Watch the video here: YouTube – Local Stories of Housing Success

What’s Next? While the update celebrates progress, Stewart emphasizes the road ahead: “We’re not done. There are still too many neighbors facing housing insecurity. But with continued community support, we’re building a safety net that works—and a future where everyone has a place to call home.”
For ongoing updates and ways to get involved, visit: United Way Homelessness Initiative

To support the initiative or learn how to help, contact United Way of Bartholomew County at (812) 372-6918 or [email protected].