Changing Homelessness ’s Post

Part 7 in our Pathways Home series is out today. We spoke with Monica Diaz and Shawn Liu, LCSW from the Homeless Programs Office of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs about the more than 50% reduction in veteran homelessness since 2009. We wanted to do an episode on veteran homelessness because it's an all-too-rare bright spot in the field. While overall homelessness rates basically haven't budged, veterans have bucked the trend, and the VA played an important role. As I did in the podcast intro, I want to highlight three takeaways from the conversation here as well. First is that when we invested more into services and housing for veterans, homelessness fell. Money can't solve everything, but it's a critical and effective tool, and the cost of preventing and resolving homelessness really isn't so great. Second, a real strength of the VA's approach is its integrated services. It touches the lives of the people it serves in so many ways, and that helps them identify and respond to problems in a relatively quick and coordinated way. There's a lesson there for other agencies, and especially for government and its partners as a complete ecosystem. Third, we hold veterans in high regard, yet many still become homeless. If we allow it to happen to them, then we are simply not as compassionate a society as we might like to think, and it can happen to just about anyone. Laying this at individuals' feet doesn't get us very far. Even more importantly, the huge decline in veteran homelessness, following the concerted efforts of the VA and its many partners, shows that homelessness is rarely a permanent state. When they feel supported, most people are ready to get back into housing. While still incomplete, we've made the commitment to support veterans in this way. We're not yet there for most other populations. https://lnkd.in/eFMVAjd8

Week in review and current SOS, "State of our Streets." 110% Things are not good, for a lot of people. Homelessness is on the rise nationwide, including here in Milwaukee. We're seeing it. Rising rent costs combined with the rising cost of living have a lot of people making decisions they never thought they would ever have to make. Shoes they thought they would never have to walk in. Too often we're hearing, "This isn't me. This isn't who I am. I have a job, I had a home...". Their trauma is coupled with guilt and shame. The number one cause of homelessness is economic. If a person has the means to afford housing, food, transportation, insurance, etc., more than likely they won't find themselves in this situation. For many, they've had to make the dreadful decision of paying rent or making their car payment and having some income leftover for food and gas. It's traumatic. Resources are abundant, but scarce. People and organizations are doing good things, but are overwhelmed by the need. Here's where we are at compared to this time one year ago: May 1, 2023: Street Angels was assisting 121 individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. May 1, 2024: Street Angels is assisting 254 unique individuals. This is a 110% increase from the same time last year. 71 women, 183 men. 89 of which are staying in vehicles. 30 of which are above the age of 60. The narrative: "People are choosing to live like this. Help is being offered and people are declining assistance." This narrative is an easy escape to accountability. The truth: 90%+ are accepting of and want help! Whether that's shelter, housing, employment, etc. Simply put--we are in an affordable housing crisis. Even for the organizations who help with these resources, they are struggling. Struggling to find homes for everyone in need. It's not their fault either. There is not one person or organization to blame. It's where we're at and it's up to all of us to work together as a collaborative network to offer the best solutions. We can't hide homelessness. The effort put into removing camps, the more trauma we are inflicting. People are suffering. People have the right to exist. Our friends had a story before homelessness and we're here to make sure they have an after. Let's not make their current chapter any more traumatic than it already is. Hope is our driving force. As a Co-Executive Director, my boots will always be on the ground--for the people, my friends.

Everyone deserves housing, shelter, food, and kindness—these are fundamental human rights that should be accessible to all, regardless of one’s circumstances. The experience of homelessness, particularly in a vibrant city like San Diego, poses immense challenges, making it nearly impossible for individuals and families to heal and rebuild their lives. A significant number of those living on the streets are families and seniors, as well as individuals grappling with trauma, Disabilities, mental health issues, and substance use. These challenges are often intertwined, creating a cycle that can feel inescapable. Without stable housing, the pathway to healing becomes obstructed. Housing is not merely a roof over one’s head; it is a cornerstone that provides the stability necessary to begin addressing deeper issues. Community plays a vital role in rewriting the narrative of homelessness. It’s crucial to foster an environment where empathy and compassion thrive. This means recognizing that every person facing homelessness has a story, a background, and a potential for recovery. Instead of judgment, we should offer understanding and support. When we come together as a community, we can advocate for policies and programs that prioritize affordable housing—not just temporary shelters, which often fail to address the underlying causes of homelessness. Affordable housing, combined with access to resources like behavioral and mental health therapy and community support, is essential for genuine healing. It creates a safe space where individuals can begin to remember who they are beyond their current struggles. This process of rediscovery is vital; each person has inherent value and potential that can flourish when they are given the opportunity and support to heal. We must emphasize that kindness and compassion should guide our efforts. Everyone deserves nutritious food, a safe place to sleep, and the dignity that comes from being treated with respect. It’s time for San Diego to increase its commitment to building more affordable housing options that integrate supportive services, ensuring that our community members are not just sheltered but also nurtured. In conclusion, let’s unite as a community to advocate for systemic change that prioritizes housing as a fundamental right. Together, we can create a compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to heal, thrive, and reclaim their place in the community. Everyone deserves housing, kindness, and food, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that these needs are met without judgment or criticism.

FLINT, Michigan — The number of people struggling with home instability is rapidly increasing in the United States. On Dec. 15, 2023, the Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) stated that people experiencing homelessness on a single night in 2023 have increased by 12% from this time last year. The report also estimates that 653,100 people are currently without housing in the U.S. Everyone is susceptible to experiencing a life-altering moment; a loss of physical health, loss of income, or a loss of security, and subjection to life-threatening violence. The homelessness disparity will continue to grow as the gap between increasing housing costs and stagnant income widens. The National Low Income Housing Coalition released a report, revealing that no state in the U.S. has an adequate supply of affordable rental housing for the lowest-income renters. Eleven million Americans pay at least half of their income towards housing. https://lnkd.in/gjtHcXTr

And these are only the documented numbers.....

Big shout out to Suella Braverman for giving me this idea 💡 Turning Ignorance into Action: Homelessness is not a choice... Many believe people choose to sleep rough, I really want to change that, will you help me?! I slept rough from the age of 13-24, it was anything but a "lifestyle choice." If I had a pound for each time I heard the phrase “it's a choice” I’d actually live in a mansion. 😱 The fear 💔 The abandonment 😭 The abuse 🤯 The trauma 🛑 The rejection These were the harsh realities that led me to sleep in dirty doorways instead of a warm bed. Why would a teenager opt for such a life over the security of a government-funded home? The answer lies in the systemic failures and injustices that plague our society. The recent ignorant attitudes of Suella and other political leaders have fueled my frustration. But instead of dwelling in anger, I've channeled it into action. Introducing the "No Choice" collection – a movement to dismantle the stigmatized belief that homelessness is a choice. I want to extend my gratitude to our government for inadvertently inspiring this initiative. It's time to change the narrative and challenge the misguided perceptions surrounding homelessness. Join me in spreading awareness and empathy. Together, we can uplift those who have been marginalized and overlooked by the system. Check out my book for more insights into my journey and the realities of homelessness. The thing is, your support doesn't stop there. With every purchase of our "No Choice" t-shirt, you're not just buying a product; you're providing essential support for a homeless person in need. 10% of all profits from the sales of our merchandise are donated to homeless outreach services, ensuring that those on the streets receive the assistance and resources they deserve. Join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Together, we can offer not only compassion but also practical support to help individuals rebuild their lives and regain their dignity. Let's stand together in solidarity, advocating for change and amplifying the voices of those who are often silenced by society. Purchase a "No Choice" t-shirt today and be a part of the solution. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and create a more equitable and compassionate world for all. 🌍❤️🩹 Let's replace ignorance with understanding, stigma with compassion, and division with unity. It's time for change. #NoChoice #EndHomelessness #ChangeTheNarrative #CompassionOverStigma #TimeForChange #GovernmentAccountability 🏠❤️🩹 Buy A T-shirt 👕 https://lnkd.in/enUTTAp9

FOR SOME GOOD NEWS read The Dallas Morning News editorial, "Dallas, Houston Find Homelessness Strategy: Measures working but will require more investment." We are the can-do city and we can do this! With a shared vision, the City of Dallas, Dallas County, and private sector partners have combined and targeted investments to substantially rev-up the rehousing system. The strategy is called the REAL Time Rapid Rehousing initiative and it overhauled the system to help neighbors rapidly and permanently exit homelessness faster than ever before. And the program’s success is securing more federal funding for our region than ever before.     This is a case of teamwork makes the dream work. The All Neighbors Coalition (a collective of over 140 organizations working in collaboration to solve homelessness in Dallas and Collin Counties) under the coordination of our client Housing Forward (the backbone agency supporting the rehousing system) the All Neighbors Coalition redesigned its approach to tackling homelessness drawing on evidence-based strategies. Read all about it . . . #HousingForward #AllynMedia Peter Brodsky Sarah Kahn Erica Barnett Monica Cordova Jennifer Pascal, MPA Austin Street Center Catholic Charities of Dallas [Official] CitySquare Family Gateway The Family Place Harmony Enrichment Development Corporation  Hope Restored Missions MetroRelief The Salvation Army The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center The Stewpot Under 1 Roof Wellness Center for Older Adults Bank of America BARON AND BLUE FOUNDATION Communities Foundation of Texas Dallas Citizens Council Dallas Regional Chamber Downtown Dallas, Inc. First National Bank HEADINGTON COMPANIES Hoblitzelle Foundation Inc Garcia Family Foundation JPMorgan Chase & Co. Lyda Hill Philanthropies The Meadows Foundation MUSE FAMILY FOUNDATION Oncor Electric Delivery Erle Nye PEROT FOUNDATION Ryan Todd Interests TOYOTA USA FOUNDATION United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Woods Capital Independent Financial Rainwater Joli Robinson Sara Craig #Homeless #Homelessness #Unhoused #Home Harmony CDC

“CFHNYC TALKS ENDING CHRONIC HOMELESSNESS: WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM HOUSTON’S SUCCESS?” SYNOPSIS: The City of Houston, the nation's fourth most populous city, has received well-deserved recognition for successfully implementing a housing first approach to addressing homelessness. According to The Way Home Continuum of Care 2023 Report, the overall number of people experiencing homelessness in the Houston region has decreased by 61% since 2011. In that timeframe, more than 28,000 people have transitioned directly into permanent housing. Additionally, they have succeeded in closing numerous homeless encampments across the city and saw a 17% reduction in unsheltered homelessness between 2022 and 2023. This remarkable progress is the outcome of collaborative efforts spanning many years among various nonprofit organizations and local government partners. By leveraging resources effectively, this collaboration has successfully matched individuals experiencing homelessness with appropriate housing interventions. Moderated by Michael Kimmelman, architecture critic for the New York Times, this webinar will feature leaders from The Way Home Continuum of Care in Houston and representatives from New York City's government and nonprofit sectors who will compare approaches to reducing homelessness. Together, we will explore transferable lessons to reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness in New York City. THU 04/16 at 2PM ET The World Wide Web, visit: https://lnkd.in/di-MY6Gz P.S. @CFHNYC   Best regards, @DrHenryGarrett Email: DrHenryGarrett@gmail.com https://lnkd.in/dJN2feSN *Disclaimer*: The information contained in this message is confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this message in error, please inform us by an email reply and then delete the message. You may not copy this message in its entirety or in part, or disclose its contents to anyone. If you do not wish to receive any email from us, please give a reply as “Email<DrHenryGarrett@gmail.com>/Message<https://lnkd.in/dgFKm8W4>”.

Amidst the pressing concerns surrounding homelessness, John Quetzalcoatl Murray’s recent Whole Community News interview with Lane Community College’s Board of Directors member, Kevin Alltucker, sheds light on multifaceted perspectives from a long-time Oregonian deeply invested in his community. Alltucker's rich background, spanning from his roles as a construction engineer to his tenure as a University of Oregon College of Education Professor in Family and Human Services, offers a unique lens through which to examine this complex issue. As the Board President of Relief Nursery and a certified Inside Out Instructor, Alltucker approaches homelessness with a nuanced understanding, emphasizing the urgency of addressing both immediate challenges and long-term systemic change. In the interview, Alltucker underscores the significance of prevention over after-the-fact treatment, advocating for proactive measures to tackle homelessness head-on. Rejecting simplistic solutions, he emphasizes the need for comprehensive approaches that address the intricate web of societal issues contributing to homelessness. He contends that coercive measures or incarceration cannot serve as panaceas, highlighting the importance of voluntary participation in treatment and rehabilitation. One of the interview's pivotal takeaways is Alltucker's observation that the majority of individuals incarcerated in the state have endured severe childhood trauma—a sobering reminder of the profound societal issues at the root of homelessness. Challenging false dichotomies and advocating for a more nuanced discourse, Alltucker urges for a shift towards scientific inquiry, where individuals engage with positions rather than attacking personalities. 🏆💪🏻 Can you tell I’m passionate about the piece? Read the article in its entiriety here:

In our fast-paced modern world, homelessness remains a poignant issue that often hides in plain sight amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life. Every city, every community has its own population of individuals who face the daily struggle of finding shelter, warmth, and sustenance. They are our neighbors, our fellow citizens, and yet their stories and challenges can easily go unnoticed. The term "good Samaritan" originates from a parable in the Bible where a compassionate individual helps a stranger in need, regardless of their background or circumstances. In today's context, being a good Samaritan means extending a helping hand to those experiencing homelessness—a gesture that can bring about profound change in someone's life. Homelessness is not just about lacking a physical roof over one's head; it encompasses a complex web of factors including poverty, unemployment, mental health issues, and systemic inequalities. It's about human beings who have fallen through the cracks of societal safety nets, often facing stigma and misunderstanding along the way. Yet, amidst these challenges, there are countless examples of good Samaritans who embody empathy and compassion in action. They are the individuals who volunteer at shelters, donate clothing and food, or simply take the time to listen to someone's story. They are the organizations and nonprofits tirelessly working to provide support services, housing assistance, and advocacy for policy change. Being a good Samaritan in the context of modern homelessness goes beyond sporadic acts of charity; it involves recognizing the humanity and dignity of every person, regardless of their circumstances. It requires us to challenge stereotypes and actively advocate for systemic solutions that address the root causes of homelessness. Moreover, being a good Samaritan means fostering a community where empathy and solidarity are valued. It means raising awareness about homelessness, engaging in meaningful conversations, and supporting initiatives that promote housing stability and social inclusion. Each act of kindness, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement towards a more compassionate society. It reminds us that homelessness is not an insurmountable issue but rather a call to action for collective responsibility and solidarity. As we navigate our daily lives, let us remember the spirit of the good Samaritan and strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Whether through volunteerism, advocacy, or simply extending a helping hand, each of us has the power to contribute to a more equitable and caring world. Let us not get so hardened that we learn to just walk by/over people suffering.