New Coordinator Tackles Homelessness Challenges

Residents accessing resources for homelessness prevention

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News Summary

Denisa Burt has been appointed as the new community resource and homelessness prevention coordinator for HHS. Her role is crucial in providing support to individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness, focusing on housing, food security, and healthcare access. Burt, with her extensive background in community support, aims to connect vulnerable populations with essential resources. Her appointment is timely, given the increasing need for coordinated efforts in tackling homelessness, and she officially began her work on December 23, 2024.

New Coordinator Joins Efforts to Combat Homelessness

Exciting news is in the air as Denisa Burt has been officially appointed as the new community-resource and homelessness-prevention coordinator for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This role is pivotal in the fight against homelessness, as Burt will be working closely to coordinate services for individuals who are either experiencing homelessness or are at risk of falling into it.

Responsibilities and Focus

Burt’s main responsibility will be to assist residents under the age of 60 in accessing critical resources related to housing, food insecurity, and health care. This multi-faceted approach is important in addressing the various factors that lead to homelessness. With her wealth of experience, she aims to make a significant impact in the community by connecting vulnerable populations with the services they need to get back on their feet.

A Strong Background in Community Support

Before stepping into this significant role, Burt had a rich background as a developmental specialist at Criterion Child Enrichment. In her previous job, she was responsible for conducting initial needs assessments and making referrals to ensure that families received the necessary support. She was known for her ability to maintain strong relationships with community providers and clients alike. This experience has undoubtedly equipped her with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of community resources.

Interestingly, the annual salary for this valued position is reported to be $67,497, showcasing the importance of bringing skilled individuals into community service roles. The previous coordinator, Libby Lazar, held the position from September 2022 until December 2024, paving the way for Burt to step in and continue the important work of addressing homelessness.

Praised for Her Skills

Colleen Leger, the HHS director, has praised Burt for her energy and expertise. Her background in needs assessment, case management, and community outreach has been highlighted as invaluable assets for the role. Burt’s arrival comes at a crucial time, as the need for coordinated efforts to assist those in need has never been greater.

A Passion for Helping Others

Coming into her new position, Burt has expressed her appreciation for the supportive community she will be serving. She looks forward to utilizing her skills to make a difference for those who are in vulnerable situations. Burt officially began her new role on December 23, 2024, marking the start of what many hope will be a new chapter in addressing homelessness in the area.

Prior to her time at Criterion Child Enrichment, Burt served as an inclusion specialist at the Inclusion Initiative in Cambridge, focusing on supporting children with disabilities and enhancing their social interactions. This experience further illustrates Burt’s long-standing commitment to helping those in need and her dedication to improving community well-being.

Academic Background

Burt holds a Bachelor’s degree in children, youth, and family studies, complemented by dual minors in psychology and communications and media analysis from Lesley University. This educational foundation further prepares her for the diverse challenges she will encounter in her role.

The news about Denisa Burt’s appointment comes at a time when communities are recognizing the critical need for dedicated individuals to address the pressing issue of homelessness. With her passion, experience, and community focus, Denisa Burt could be the key to unlocking new resources and support for those who need it most, turning challenges into opportunities for many.