The topic of homelessness creates controversy. Many will observe, “They just need to go get a job.” Those of us that have friends in that community whose stories we know well, muse “if only it was that simple.” Almost every story includes a breakdown in family. Statistics help us understand the issues.
25% suffer from mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression
17% are considered chronically homeless
13% are fleeing domestic violence
12% are veterans
Homelessness Facts & Statistics – National | Green Doors
SAMSA statistics reveal that around 70% of the homeless population are addicted to either alcohol or drugs.
One does not wave a wand at those realities and have folks transformed to six figure IT workers. For some of us, Christian compassion and reflection prompts the thought that “there by the grace of God go I” and God’s Bible makes it clear I am supposed to be a part of helping those in such situations. If such concerns do not include you, the economic reality should. Past studies have shown that the taxpayer cost for each homeless person in policing, medical and other social services costs add up to at least $35,000 per year per person.
So, is there a known solution? Accessible permanent housing offered in a way that includes the needed social services. Addiction counseling, mental counseling, job training and the gamut of services are necessary. This approach has been quite cost effective and has led to residents becoming self-sufficient. Small footprint, sole occupancy homes are more economical to build and maintain than conventional apartments or homes but more adaptable to the type of living that works for previously unsheltered people. North Carolina’s Wilmington Eden Village or Austin’s Loaves and Fishes
The topic of homelessness creates controversy. Many will observe, “They just need to go get a job.” Those of us that have friends in that community whose stories we know well, muse “if only it was that simple.” Almost every story includes a breakdown in family. Statistics help us understand the issues.
25% suffer from mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression
17% are considered chronically homeless
13% are fleeing domestic violence
12% are veterans
Homelessness Facts & Statistics – National | Green Doors
SAMSA statistics reveal that around 70% of the homeless population are addicted to either alcohol or drugs.
One does not wave a wand at those realities and have folks transformed to six figure IT workers. For some of us, Christian compassion and reflection prompts the thought that “there by the grace of God go I” and God’s Bible makes it clear I am supposed to be a part of helping those in such situations. If such concerns do not include you, the economic reality should. Past studies have shown that the taxpayer cost for each homeless person in policing, medical and other social services costs add up to at least $35,000 per year per person.
So, is there a known solution? Accessible permanent housing offered in a way that includes the needed social services. Addiction counseling, mental counseling, job training and the gamut of services are necessary. This approach has been quite cost effective and has led to residents becoming self-sufficient. Small footprint, sole occupancy homes are more economical to build and maintain than conventional apartments or homes but more adaptable to the type of living that works for previously unsheltered people. North Carolina’s Wilmington Eden Village or Austin’s Loaves and Fishes How this faith-based town is helping end homelessness – YouTube are good examples of pioneers in the answers to the hard issues the unsheltered set before us on a daily basis. Will you contribute your time and talents to the solutions?