Addition of Two Licensed Social Workers further expands services to help individuals move toward permanent housing

To learn more about Dutchess County’s emergency housing services, click here.  Individuals in need of housing can contact DCFS at 845-486-3300 between 9 AM and 5 PM on weekdays, or should call 211 or local law enforcement for emergency placement after hours.

 A new report from the New York State Comptroller’s Office highlights the success of Dutchess County’s proactive approach to addressing homelessness, including street outreach, extensive case management and the most recent addition of two licensed social workers. The report, which examine homelessness trends across the state, showed the Poughkeepsie/Dutchess County Continuum of Care had the lowest rate of increase in homelessness in New York State, with an 11% rise compared to the statewide average increase of 113% for 2022 to 2024.

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Dutchess County has taken a multi-faceted approach to addressing homelessness, and the Comptroller’s report confirms that our efforts are making a real impact. We are committed to strengthening our outreach system by expanding resources, enhancing coordination, and integrating mental health professionals to better serve those in need.”

According to the report, neighboring areas, including Newburgh, Middletown/Orange County, Kingston/Ulster County, and Columbia/Greene Counties, saw significantly higher increases of 130%, 51% and 39% respectively, underscoring Dutchess County’s success in mitigating the crisis.

The report is a testament to the work of the Dutchess County Department of Community & Family Services’ (DCFS) social welfare workers and case managers who work tirelessly to prevent homelessness and find housing solutions for those in need.  DCFS took over case management at the PODS shelter in August from the former shelter operator, with an 8-person case management team who work with every guest to assess their needs and develop individualized independent living plans. The County’s latest efforts is the addition of the two licensed social workers, who began working in December 2024, further enhancing Dutchess County’s commitment to providing critical support to individuals experiencing homelessness. These skilled professionals are embedded with the DCFS team and bring extensive experience in harm reduction, street outreach, and working with unhoused populations. Together, the team offers mental health support, crisis intervention, and personalized care to address barriers to housing while helping to secure housing and benefits and promoting mental health and well-being through individual and group sessions.

Dutchess County’s efforts have been multi-faceted to help individuals in need access temporary emergency housing and help work with them toward permanent housing. The addition of the social workers strengthens this network, enhancing the County’s ability to support individuals in crisis while addressing the root causes of homelessness. The number of people housed at the PODS has declined 33% for December 2023 compared to December 2024.

To learn more about Dutchess County’s emergency housing services, click here.  Individuals in need of housing can contact DCFS at 845-486-3300 between 9 AM and 5 PM on weekdays, or should call 211 or local law enforcement for emergency placement after hours.