Council asked to seed $25,000 emergency fund for residents displaced from Park at Buckingham

City staff and community partners detailed short-term aid needs for residents displaced after condemnation at the Park at Buckingham. Staff asked council to seed an emergency assistance fund with $25,000 so partner organization HEKA can provide moving assistance, first-month rent and deposits, and other emergency support while additional partners and donors are solicited.

Staff emphasized a coordinated approach: Homewood Fire and community partners will conduct outreach and intake, Homewood City Schools will allow enrolled students to finish the school year at their assigned schools regardless of where families relocate, and local churches and nonprofits will host an on-site resource fair planned for Aug. 18 to help connect families to housing options and wraparound services.