NORWICH – In an effort to help people with serious mental illnesses locate mainstream housing, the Chenango County Board of Supervisors renewed a contract for supported housing services from Catholic Charities.

The board approved a 2012 contract for $176,516.

Catholic Charities of Chenango County, located on O’Hara Drive in Norwich, is an organization of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse. It is dedicated to enacting Christ’s teachings by responding to people and their needs, through service, advocacy, convening and empowerment, according to its website.

Individuals receive assistance finding housing, roommates and furniture, and help with initial and ongoing affordability. They may be living in their own apartment or in properties that Catholic Charities rents for them.