Northumberland County’s warden and acting chief administrative officer are speaking out in support of local social services staff and community volunteers, saying demand for assistance continues to climb as economic pressures deepen across the region.
In a joint statement released Thursday, county leadership said more than six thousand residents currently access income based social assistance, with the true number of people receiving help even higher when housing supports, child care subsidies and food programs are included.
They point to rising costs for basic needs such as housing, groceries and home heating as key drivers behind increased housing insecurity and homelessness. Officials say the trend is visible locally, with growing demand for housing and shelter services. At the county’s Division Street shelter site, roughly half of current users are seniors, reflecting a shift in who is experiencing homelessness.
County leaders highlighted the role of social services staff, describing daily work that includes connecting families to child care subsidies, helping seniors secure benefits, supporting people fleeing domestic violence, and assisting individuals living without stable housing. They also recognized the contribution of volunteers and community organizations that provide meals, clothing and other frontline supports.
The statement also addresses recent public criticism of social services, warning that language which paints clients as criminals or calls for sweeping investigations can create stigma and discourage people from seeking help. County officials say that kind of messaging may also increase safety risks for vulnerable residents and add strain to already stretched frontline workers.
Leadership says communities must continue to discuss addiction, homelessness and safety, but with care and accuracy. They add that municipalities are carrying a growing share of responsibility in responding to a broader crisis and that progress depends on balanced, respectful and solution focused dialogue.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
