By Hannah Haynes
HHaynes@cherryroad.com
After the closure of the Turning Point homeless shelter, many residents of the Uintah Basin have struggled to find assistance and services for those facing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. The Turning Point shelter was a crucial resource for the community, and its absence has significantly impacted the ability of many to access the help they need.
However, the Uintah Basin Association of Governments (UBAOG) is prepared with a treasure trove of resources to support those who may be uncertain about how or where they need to take their next steps.
“If you are struggling to find or fix a home, UBAOG can help you,” said Kevin Yack of UBAOG. “Through grants and local funding, our program is readily available to help basin residents, although it’s been challenging to get the word out.”
UBAOG has resources available for a wide range of needs, from displaced or homeless residents to homeowners facing financial difficulties and needing repairs.
“With residents experiencing current or sudden homelessness, we have the option of offering motel vouchers as emergency shelter,” Yack explained. “Once you contact UBAOG, we will assist in placing you in a motel, either in Vernal or Roosevelt, and provide job placement support if needed.”
The vouchers, which are often allotted for 7 to 10 days (and can be extended), serve as a stepping stone to help residents get back on track.
UBAOG also offers services for residents in lower income brackets who may be struggling.
“We offer loan-based programs as well as rehabilitation programs for residents who are trying to purchase or fix a home here in the basin,” said housing coordinator Angie Henline.
“Often, we can also help with home insurance issues and roofing problems,” added housing assistant Kendra Hackford. “A readily available program assists residents in replacing their roofs if they meet the qualifying income criteria.”
One of the biggest challenges for the association has been getting the word out about these programs.
“There is money set aside to help those in need of housing within the basin,” explained Kevin Yates. “Our programs have received substantial support from the Uintah County commissioners, who have been instrumental in making them feasible.”
If you or a loved one is having difficulty finding or repairing a home, consider reaching out to UBAOG. You can contact them via their hotline at 435-724-4643, which is open until 9 PM, visit their website at www.UBAOG.com, or stop by their main office in Roosevelt.
