There are many ways people can help the homeless.
Being homeless is a hard situation for any person to deal with. Luckily, there are ways for those who are more fortunate to offer assistance. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of how exactly they can help combat the homeless problem in their area. Here are some facts on helping the homeless.
The Numbers of Homeless
The struggling American housing market and the subsequent recession are forcing more individuals and families out of their homes. According to National Alliance to End Homelessness, the recession was on track to force 1.5 million more people into homelessness by the end of the year 2011. In 2008, the U.S. Conference of Mayors claimed an increase of the homeless populations in 19 out of the 25 cities surveyed. Cities also reported a 12 percent homelessness increase since 2007.
Building a Shelter Doesn't Increase Homeless Populations
Some may argue that building a homeless shelter will somehow draw more homeless people to the neighborhood. There is often a fear that this increased number of homeless individuals will bring about more panhandling, property crime and violent crime in these areas. This is not accurate. Building and supporting a local shelter does not bring in addition homeless in droves and actually reduces the number of homeless on the streets and provides them with a safe place to stay while in transition.
Homeless Shelters Need Monetary Donations
Opening and maintaining a homeless shelter can be a difficult task. It requires start-up funds, as well as continuing financial support. Often this financial support comes from fundraisers and contributions from local communities. Since the onset of the recent recession and housing crisis, local governments across the nation can only offer a fraction of the financial support to these facilities as they had in years past. This increases the need for financial support from local community members and non-governmental organizations.
Different Ways to Volunteer
There are many different ways you can help fight homelessness, including volunteering. Giving just a few hours a week can be of great assistance to the functioning of a homeless shelter, soup kitchen or job training facility. Intake assessment takers meet with homeless residents in a specified shelter or organization and match them with specific programs and housing to help them get back on their feet. Other volunteers include certified counselors, cooks, spiritual guides and fundraisers.
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