ECHO West Texas Announces Launch of Locally Managed Continuum of Care Program to Address Homelessness

ECHO West Texas is proud to announce that, as of February 5, 2025, we have officially become a locally-led Continuum of Care (CoC). This is a significant milestone for us and the community, as it empowers us to lead, and coordinate effectively to address homelessness and provide support for individuals and families in need.

Being a locally-led CoC means that we now have the opportunity to better tailor and streamline our services to meet the unique needs of our community, ensure that all voices are heard, and build stronger partnerships with local organizations. We will work together to offer comprehensive data-driven solutions that promote long-term housing stability, wraparound support, and resources for everyone facing housing challenges. 

ECHO West Texas is the designated Lead Agency for our local CoC. As the Lead Agency, we will directly oversee the strategies and services aimed at helping individuals and families find permanent housing and support, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive. This transition allows us to have a local presence offering centralized coordination, improved resource allocation, strengthened collaboration, and improved data collection. 

"We are excited to integrate this transformative homeless response system that will provide a more connected approach that not only focuses on crisis response, but directs efforts to prevention and sustainability as well."

Valerie Longoria, ECHO Executive Director ECHO West Texas will continue to work with the City of Lubbock, South Plains Homeless Consortium, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and HUD Technical Assistance. This collaborative provides a network of resources, services, and partnerships to ensure that no one falls through the cracks. Together, we are committed to engaging with local stakeholders, community members, and those who have experienced homelessness, to ensure our shared solutions and services are inclusive.

"The SPHC remains dedicated to working together to build a system that is responsive, effective, and centered on the needs of those we serve. Under ECHO’s new leadership, our member agencies are committed to ensuring individuals experiencing homelessness continue to receive the supports they need toward independence and stability.”

Aaron Dawson, Board President of South Plains Homeless Consortium (SPHC) "Our goal is to become a model city who is focused on long-term solutions and holistic support to those experiencing homelessness. Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this new chapter. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to get involved, share your thoughts, and help shape the future of our community!” David Alderson, ECHO Board President

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About ECHO West Texas

ECHO West Texas is a nonprofit organization, connecting communities and providers to coordinate resources through a community developed database, for people experiencing or at-risk of homelessness. Our goal is to promote a coordinated system of care, sustainable strategies, and measurable impact, and develop collective funding solutions for homeless service providers. 

For more information on how to partner with ECHO West Texas, please contact Valerie Longoria, Executive Director at Val@echowtx.org.