Philadelphia’s eviction prevention program remains intact for now 

The city’s eviction diversion program will remain active through the first half of 2024.

Launched in 2020 and endorsed by the vice president of the Pennsylvania Apartment Association, the program leverages counseling and mediation to limit disputes in the court system.

Its objective is to strengthen relationships between landlords and tenants so affordable housing can be maintained without legal response. 

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DOC releases latest re-arrest and reincarnation rates  

A 2022 report from The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections documents trends across statewide prisons and institutions. It covers offense types, recidivism, offender demographics, and budget expenses. Findings include:

• A steady recidivism rate of 64 percent in the last 16 years
• Increases in offenses among women and the White population
• Presence of highest crime rates in central and western counties
• A budget increase from $1.8 billion to $2.7 billion between 2010 and 2019

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DEP defines contaminant levels for forever chemicals 

The Department of Environmental Protection proposal, evaluated and approved by by Pennsylvania’s Environmental Quality Board, is putting a limit on two toxic chemical classes known as PFAS.

These chemicals are found in public drinking water as well as nonstick cookware, food packaging, flame-retardant fabrics, and firefighting foam.

Researchers continue to explore the health dangers of this contamination, which can remain in a bloodstream for years. 

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Hospice-type care helps people age in place and reduces Medicare costs

Some communities are using software applications similar to Uber and Lyft to secure transportation.

For small fees, people arrange for public vans or shuttles to transport them on demand.

Traditional buses are still available, but microtransit may be the solution to needs during off hours, involving off-route locations, and which require immediate response.

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Small Canada city ends chronic homelessness

With no preconditions, Medicine Hat assists people with housing before addressing other challenges they may face.

The city also fosters rapport with landlords and strengthens housing loss prevention efforts.

It remains a leader in the effort to end chronic homelessness, which ensures that no more than three people experience homelessness through a duration of three months.



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Microtransit shows potential for becoming the new public option

Some communities are using software applications similar to Uber and Lyft to secure transportation.

For small fees, people arrange for public vans or shuttles to transport them on demand.

Traditional buses are still available, but microtransit may be the solution to needs during off hours, involving off-route locations, and which require immediate response.

Click here to read the full article