FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners approved funding for a new pilot program aimed at preventing homelessness and stabilizing housing for residents in crisis. The Homeless Prevention and Stabilization Voucher Program, led by the county's Community Development Department, offers temporary financial assistance to eligible individuals and families.
The pilot program will operate for up to six months or until funds are exhausted. The program is designed to provide short-term support to residents who are at risk of or are currently experiencing homelessness or are within 14 days of losing housing with no other resources available.
Assistance may include:
-
Up to three months of rent
-
Security deposit coverage
-
Up to $500 in utility assistance
-
Transportation to work or medical appointments
-
Up to seven nights in a motel if no other shelter is available
To qualify, residents must meet a low-to-moderate income threshold of $42,000 or less per year.
“This pilot program is a critical step in addressing the immediate needs of our most vulnerable residents,” said Interim Cumberland County Community Development Director Tye Vaught. “By offering targeted, flexible support, we can help individuals stabilize their living situations and work toward long-term housing solutions.”
Residents must be referred through Coordinated Entry, the county's centralized intake system for homelessness services. To begin the referral process, individuals can call 910-483-6869 or visit the Fayetteville Cares Day Resource Center, located at 128 S. King St. in Fayetteville.
The pilot program is part of a broader effort by Cumberland County to reduce homelessness and improve access to essential services. The Board of Commissioners approved $250,000 for the program in August 2025 following recommendations from Cumberland County Community Development and local housing advocates.
For more information about the Homeless Prevention and Stabilization Voucher Program or other housing resources, visit www.cumberlandcountync.gov/communitydevelopment or call 910-323-6112.