We’ll recover from this recession, but it will take time, it will take patience, and it will take an understanding that, when we all work together, when each of us looks beyond our own short-term interest to the wider set of obligations we have towards each other, that’s when we succeed, that’s when we prosper, and that’s what is needed right now. — President Barack Obama
Families with children, single adults, teenagers, and elderly individuals of all races struggle with the devastating effects of homelessness. Homelessness exists across the country, in small rural towns, suburban neighborhoods, and large metropolises.
Over 5 million low-income households have serious housing problems due to high housing costs, substandard housing conditions, or both.
PADS statistics for fiscal year 2009/2010, which ended June 30, 2010
| | 2010/2011 | 2009/2010 | Difference | % Difference |
|---|
| Total Individuals Served |
1,673 |
1,368 |
305 |
+18.2% |
| Individuals in Families |
285 |
157 |
128 |
+45% |
| Children* |
490 |
311 |
134 |
+36.5% |
* The data in these rows is included in Total Individuals Served. Please keep in mind that The Family Center can only house 42 individuals at a time. There were instances where families with children could not stay at the Family Center due to space constraints and had to go to our Emergency Shelter sites.
Homeless Youth
An estimated 500,000 to 1.3 million youth who leave or are told to leave home become homeless in the U.S. each year. Their numbers are difficult to determine because many “couch surf,” staying with a friend, and then moving to another friend’s place.
- Homelessness is one of our nation’s most misunderstood and vexing social problems.
- According to the most recent data available, an estimated 744,313 people in America experienced homelessness.
- Every year, between 20,000 and 25,000 youth, ages 18 and older, age out of the foster care system.
- Homeless youth often flee homes where they experience physical abuse and between 17 and 35 percent experience sexual abuse.
- Without a home, family support, or other resources, homeless youth are often locked up because they are without supervision.
Some Things You Can Do To Make A Difference
- Learn about homelessness and educate others.
- Support the development of affordable housing.
- Volunteer at a local shelter – no matter what you do for a living, you can help the homeless with your on-the-job talents and skills.
- Volunteer at a soup kitchen.
- Donate groceries, extra food and paper products.
- Become a landlord to a family that is transitioning out of a homeless shelter.
- Help a family move or provide “house warming gifts” such as linens, dishes, pots and pans, small appliances and lamps for children, youth and families who are moving out of the shelter and into their own homes.
- No matter how large or small donate money to help those in our backyard who need help the most!
