Our Stories: Homelessness

Pitt County Commissioners approve a proposal to make the United Way the lead agency to end chronic homelessness.

Jim Cieslar is the United Way's Executive Director, he says their organization is fit for the job---they're a neutral place with a common goal.

For many years Pitt County was the lead agency for all things homelessness, but recently the county and it's 10 year plan advisory board recommended it was time to hand the job to someone better qualified.

"We are seen as a neutral table where the entire community can come together; government, social service agencies, the faith community to jointly tackle community problems, and prevent community problems." Cieslar said. The county will provide the United Way with $45,000 to staff the committees and to staff the efforts.