November is Homeless Awareness Month.
Family homelessness is the fastest growing sub population of the homeless. According to the Better Homes Fund, "We are bearing witness to a national tragedy of monumental proportions: More Americans are homeless today than at any time since the great depression, dooming them to a life on the streets, in substandard hotels, motels and in emergency shelters."
This is reflected in the estimated 4,500 people experiencing homelessness each year in Northwest Louisiana. Even more alarming is the National Center for Family Homelessness reports Louisiana with more than 43,000 homeless children. Last year, Providence House served 980 homeless people. That included 573 children and 283 adults. Regrettably, we were forced to turn away 1,000 families due to lack of resources.
Ending family homelessness is possible, but it will take long term solutions. It will take using our hearts and our heads.
What can you do to help? Give where your passion directs you and give generously of your time, talent and treasure to end homelessness.
Imagine a community where no family is homeless together it is possible.
I'm Simone Hennessee with Providence House.
