The Bailey’s Shelter is under new management

Fairfax County has taken steps to improve the management of the Bailey’s Shelter since the county terminated its contract with New Hope Housing.

“We are stabilizing staffing,” said Allyson Pearce with the Housing and Community Development Department’s Office to Prevent and End Homelessness (HCD OPEH).  

Related story: New Hope Housing contract terminated

“New Hope Housing staff applied for positions to continue their work at the Bailey’s and Kennedy shelters with Fairfax County through a temporary staffing agency. To recognize their hard work and persistence, those who are hired receive bonuses,” Pearce said.

The onboarding process is continuing during the transition. [One employee who was continuing to work at the Bailey’s Shelter even though he hadn’t been paid in six weeks told Annandale Today on Sept. 28 he had been promised a $1,500 bonus.]

Related Story: Homeless shelter staff complain about late paychecks, lack of supplies

On Sept. 15, OPEH announced its intent to terminate its contract with New Hope Housing. As of Oct. 1, the county is responsible for all operations previously handled by New Hope Housing while it searches for a new service provider.

The shelters had been mismanaged under New Hope Housing, resulting in shelter staff not getting paid and their health benefits suspended.

“HCD OPEH recognizes that New Hope Housing staff have persisted with their essential work despite disruptions,” the agency announced. “HCD OPEH is seeking to keep New Hope Housing staff in their roles with consistent, reliable compensation.”

Homeless people at the Bailey’s Shelter have complained about the lack of services and the inability of staff to handle difficult situations.

Related story: Residents complain about deteriorating conditions at the Bailey’s Shelter

“Shelter staff are required to receive training,” Pearce said. “We are assessing the training needs of former New Hope Housing staff and working toward ensuring training gaps are filled. Required training covers topics such as trauma-informed care, de-escalation, substance abuse disorder, and more.”

“We are working to improve the shelter guest experience,” she added. “Our first priority has been to ensure that the facilities are receiving the basic services required, including proper cleaning and food. Moving forward, we seek to create a consistent guest experience, including connections to employment, affordable housing, and medical care.”

According to Pearce, HCD OPEH is working with staff to create better systems that ensure guests know how to have their concerns addressed. “This includes fostering a closer relationship between guests and HCD OPEH directly. We recognize guests wish for more direct dialogue with us, and we will work to make this happen.”

Related story: New Hope Housing director blames the county for late paychecks to shelter staff

“As we get better communications systems up and running, guests are always welcome to talk to Fairfax County staff on-site or to email us at [email protected],” Pearce said. “We appreciate the feedback and will work to address all concerns.”

She said HCD OPEH staff are at the Bailey’s and Kennedy shelters during the transition, and public health nurses and behavioral specialists are frequently on site.

“Homelessness is a community-wide issue that requires a community-wide response,” Pearce said. “We are fortunate in Fairfax County that so many volunteers, nonprofit providers, faith-based organizations, and others rally together to support people experiencing homelessness.”