Persons with Lived EXPERIENCE COMPENSATION

This policy ensures the representation and participation of Persons with Lived Experience (PLE) of homelessness on the Flint & Genesee County Continuum of Care (CoC) as their expertise is essential to achieving the CoC’s goal of preventing and ending homelessness in Flint and Genesee County. It also ensures that Persons with Lived Experience are compensated fairly and equitably for their contributions.

The current PLE Policy is effective as of September 1, 2026, and is available in its entirety here. 

• Persons with Lived Experience (PLE):  Persons with Lived Experience are individuals who are homeless or those who have been homeless. Individuals must have experienced homelessness within the last 36 months or be currently homeless to be eligible for compensation. 
• Compensation: Payment for time spent participating in CoC activities, which may include attending meetings, travel time and preparation sessions.

  PLE will be compensated at a rate of $50 per hour for the following activities:

• Participation in CoC General Membership meetings;
• Participation in CoC committee meetings;
• Participation in CoC training sessions;
• Travel time to/from CoC meetings and trainings (up to 30 minutes per meeting or training), if approved in advance by the CoC Chair or CoC staff;
• Preparation for CoC Governance Council and committee meetings. This includes meetings with CoC staff or members to discuss agenda creation, presentations, and policy discussions but does not include individual preparation time; and
• Participation in interviews, focus groups and other activities meant to further the mission of the CoC. 

  PLE can choose to receive their compensation through:

• Direct deposit (upon completion of a W-9 form and ACH agreement)
• Checks  (upon completion of a W-9 form)

To ensure proper documentation and timely payment, PLE must submit their requests for compensation using this form.  Payment will be processed and disbursed by the CoC’s Collaborative Applicant.  PLE must be a member of the CoC and may join by completing this membership form. 

The CoC is committed to fair and trauma-informed engagement practices, including:

• Offering various days, times, and methods for participation;
• Being transparent about time commitments and decision-making processes;
• Providing monetary compensation at industry-standard rates;
• Offering detailed orientation and preparation materials;
• Addressing resource needs (childcare, transportation, technology assistance); and
• Providing emotional support structures for Persons with Lived Experience. 

For any questions or further details, PLE can contact CoC Staff at housing@flint.org.