Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, Celebrates Anniversary of Successful Homelessness Program

POTTSTOWN, Pa. — Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, is celebrating the first anniversary of a groundbreaking initiative that has transformed the lives of hundreds of residents. The Emergency Hotel Program, launched in April 2025, provides free hotel rooms and supportive services to individuals experiencing homelessness, offering a bridge to permanent housing.

⠀

For residents like Heather Kemps, the program was a vital lifeline. Kemps and her late husband, Dave Zapalac, had been living in a tent in the woods of Pottstown after Zapalac lost his benefits and they were unable to afford housing. The couple transitioned into the free, clean hotel environment, which Kemps noted brought a sense of calm and stability to their lives during a period of significant health challenges.

⠀

The program is a collaboration between the nonprofit organization Opportunity House and the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. Representing a nearly $2 million investment, the initiative was spearheaded by Board Chair Jamila Winder and commissioners Neil Makhija and Thomas DiBello. DiBello recently confirmed that more than 250 individuals have accessed the facility over the past year, calling the program a proven success.

⠀

The initiative also prioritizes keeping families and their companions together. Michael Trump, another program participant, was able to bring his two dogs into the hotel while he worked toward sobriety. Trump highlighted that the program offered more than just a roof; staff members provided essential logistical support, such as helping him navigate the process of renewing his identification and connecting him with long-term resources.

⠀

The impact of the program continues to resonate as former participants move into permanent homes. While the success is bittersweet for Kemps—whose husband passed away in August 2025—she has since moved into her own home, where she finds peace spending time with her family. Michael Trump has also successfully transitioned into a new residence, expressing deep gratitude for the second chance the program provided.

⠀

As Montgomery County continues to expand its emergency housing network, officials are looking toward the future. Construction is currently underway on additional short-term supportive housing facilities in Norristown and Lansdale to ensure that the county's most vulnerable residents have access to the dignity and safety of a stable place to stay.

⠀

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.