Comprehensive Emergency Assistance System & Continuum of Care (CEAS/CoC) is a process that is used by many communities in the United States to identify and assess individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness and in need of supportive housing. CEAS is typically implemented by Continuums of Care (CoCs), which are local or regional planning bodies that coordinate and deliver housing and supportive services to people experiencing homelessness.

The goal of CEAS is to create a more coordinated and effective system for delivering supportive housing services to those in need. Under CEAS, individuals and families are assessed to determine their needs and eligibility for supportive housing, and then matched to appropriate housing and services based on their needs and preferences.

CEAS typically involves a standardized assessment tool that is used to gather information about an individual or family’s history, housing status, and service needs. The assessment is used to develop a plan for providing the individual or family with the support they need to achieve and maintain stable housing.

CoCs play a critical role in implementing CEAS and coordinating the delivery of supportive housing services in their communities. CoCs bring together a variety of stakeholders, including housing providers, social service agencies, and government agencies, to create a more coordinated and effective system for delivering supportive housing services.

The Union County Comprehensive Emergency Assistance System & Continuum of Care (CEAS/CoC) Committee is the primary vehicle for planning and coordinating the delivery of emergency services to the homeless and at risk of homeless individuals and families living in Union County. The CEAS/CoC Committee is a network of public and private entities for integrated social services that include:

• Housing and the prevention of homelessness, through a variety of programs such as rapid-rehousing, street outreach, homeless prevention and emergency shelter.

• Facilitates the exchanges of information and network of local non-profit, government and faith based groups, thereby forming a continuum of housing and emergency assistance services.

• Provides program planning and implementation of housing and emergency assistance services to address the needs of those experiencing homelessness and/or housing insecurity in Union County.

CEAS/CoC meetings take place bi-monthly and are on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 9:30am, starting in January. Please note that CEAS/CoC does not meet during the months of February, April, July and August. Please see below for the schedule of meetings.