Homeless Services Advisory Committee | September 8, 2026

The City of Columbia's Homeless Services Advisory Committee met on September 8, 2026, to review fiscal year 2025 and 2026 outcomes related to homeless services, including shelter usage, recovery services, and street outreach efforts. The committee discussed the expansion of outreach programs, transportation barriers, and partnerships with local agencies such as Comet and Prisma Health. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a homelessness assessment conducted by HMA, which highlighted the need for increased behavioral health integration, formalized coordination among service providers, and expanded housing stock. The committee also explored opportunities for pursuing various federal grants, including SAMHSA and HUD funding, to support service expansion and landlord engagement. The meeting concluded with plans to enhance data sharing and coordination across providers and a call for strategic prioritization of homelessness initiatives. An executive session was held to discuss matters covered by attorney-client privilege related to homeless services.