WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County Department of Community Development has earned international recognition for its efforts to reduce homelessness, receiving a Built for Zero milestone award that highlights the county’s growing role as a data-driven leader in housing stability.
The organization honored Chester County for achieving Quality Data for the Chronic Population, a benchmark that reflects a coordinated system capable of tracking homelessness in real time, targeting resources with precision, and aligning partners around a shared definition of what it means to end homelessness. The recognition was presented at Built for Zero’s international conference in Denver.
Built for Zero officials cited the county’s expanding partnerships with community groups, behavioral health providers, and individuals with lived experience, crediting those collaborations with strengthening Chester County’s long-term strategy.
County leaders pointed to tangible progress behind the accolades. Chester County CEO David Byerman said the county has seen a 33% reduction in first-time homelessness over two years, dropping from 694 individuals in 2022 to 465 in 2024. He added that emergency shelter entries have nearly been cut in half over five years, a trend he attributed to sustained investment in affordable housing and coordinated outreach.
DCD Director Dolores Colligan said more than 150 partners contribute data and insight that shape the county’s programs and funding decisions. She said the collective approach has been essential to building a system capable of responding quickly to shifting needs.
Built for Zero is a global movement of more than 100 communities working to end homelessness through shared goals, proven methodologies, and cross-sector collaboration. Chester County’s recognition signals continued momentum for a region aiming to blend accountability, equity, and long-term planning into its homelessness-response framework.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.