Regional Task Force Tackles Transportation Gaps, Housing Shortage, and Vandalism at April 2026 Meeting

ELKINS, W.Va. — April 27, 2026 — The Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health convened on the afternoon of April 23, 2026, at the Phil Gainer Community Center. The monthly meeting, which was open to the public, brought together local officials and community partners to address ongoing challenges in North Central West Virginia. Task Force chair Travis Bennett called the meeting to order.

Homelessness and Housing Resources

A detailed update from the Randolph County Housing Authority (RCHA) highlighted critical limitations in local housing capacity. The Coalition to End Homelessness oversees the Coordinated Entry System (CES), which remains the required starting point for anyone seeking assistance. RCHA reported that approximately 75% of its annual program funding has already been expended.

There is currently no immediate or emergency housing available through RCHA, and hotel placement is reserved only for specific, medically necessary situations. Trent Clem serves as the local coalition outreach worker, meeting with unhoused individuals in the area twice weekly.

Building Vandalism and Demolition

Jessie Kittle reported that a building in Elkins that has been inhabited and vandalized by the unhoused population will be demolished by the end of the year. Task Force members noted that many unoccupied buildings have not been properly secured by property owners, leading to further vandalism and potentially hazardous situations.

Members of the public encouraged to reach out to Jessie Kittle (jessiekittle@cityofelkinswv.gov) regarding any additional unoccupied or damaged buildings to be added to the demolition list.

Transportation for Treatment

Significant progress was reported on addressing transportation barriers. Our House is working with the Pallottine Foundation of Buckhannon and Recovery Point on “Routes to Recovery” to bring a transportation location to Buckhannon. The service will require an all-wheel-drive vehicle to start; ideas can be directed to Megan Payne at ourhousewv@gmail.com.

Additionally, Shawn Pennington presented a formal transportation proposal outlining a non-emergency recovery transportation service based in Randolph County. The model includes a strict hiring process for individuals in recovery, requiring 18 to 24 months of sobriety and a sponsor as a condition of employment. The Task Force is still reviewing insurance processes and potential funding opportunities.

Partner Updates and Emerging Trends

Several organizations provided updates on upcoming events and services:

• Our House: Hosting “End the Stigma” on May 2 from 9 am to 5 pm at Jawbone Park, featuring a Prescription Take Back (1-3 pm) and “Pies for Progress” (3-5 pm). A spring raffle is also available on the organization’s Facebook page.
• Pallottine Foundation: Announced that new funding grants will be coming available.
• West Care: Hosting a Men’s Facility ribbon cutting on May 8.
• WV Prevention Solutions: Working to secure support letters from school superintendents for the Icelandic Model, a five-year project.
• Catholic Charities: Case management assistance is available for emergency, non-chronic issues; criteria and guidelines are being finalized.
• Parsons PD: Reported that marijuana has been testing positive for methamphetamine.

Announcements and Upcoming Events

• Community Membership Meetings: Email the FRN (rcfrndirector@gmail.com) to be added to the distribution list.
• Connection Tuesdays: Training programs are ongoing.
• Lean on Me: Scheduled for May 26.
• Next Food Truck: Scheduled for June through the FRN.
• Randolph County Partners in Prevention: Contact them to join the team.

Next Task Force Meeting

The Task Force’s next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 28, 2026, 1:00 pm, at the Phil Gainer Community Center.

About the Regional Task Force on Addiction, Homelessness, and Mental Health:

Established in May 2021, this task force brings together local officials, law enforcement, and community organizations to address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health needs; it meets monthly in Elkins, WV. The Task Force strives to identify gaps in services, coordinate resources, and implement sustainable solutions to these challenges in North Central West Virginia.