Homelessness is More Than Just Statistics -- It’s Real People, Real Lives, and Real Struggles

IRVINE, Calif., October 31, 2024 (Newswire.com) - Homelessness is more than just statistics—it’s real people, real lives, and real struggles. According to the annual Point in Time Count, a record-high 653,104 people experienced homelessness on a single night in January 2023. This is more than a 12.1 percent increase over the previous year. But the full story? It's even more complex.

HomeAid will take a close look at many of the complex issues that construct the full story of homelessness during its annual month-long national campaign to raise awareness about homelessness. HomeAid believes solving and preventing homelessness is possible. However, to find plausible and effective solutions, there needs to be a comprehensive understanding of all the reasons individuals find themselves faced with the reality of homelessness.

“Our goal is to raise awareness, educate, and inspire action. We invite you to participate in our campaign and engage through community activities, educational events, and opportunities to contribute to our mission both nationally and with HomeAid’s affiliates. Whether by volunteering, sharing stories on social media, or supporting our ongoing efforts financially, we need everyone to get involved,” said Scott Larson, CEO, of HomeAid.

The National Alliance of Homelessness reports that nearly 40% of Americans are one paycheck away from experiencing homelessness. A sudden job loss, unexpected medical expense, or economic downturn can quickly spiral into homelessness when there’s no financial security to fall back on. Serious illness, accidents, natural disasters, disability, or even aging can also push someone toward homelessness with little warning.

Economic hardship makes us all vulnerable, but together, we can create the systems needed to prevent homelessness before it happens. HomeAid is committed to working toward a future where everyone has access to safe, stable housing.

Visit homeaid.org to view our comprehensive glossary of terms associated with homelessness that will help with a more in-depth understanding of this issue, to follow along with the Homelessness Awareness Month Campaign throughout November, and also learn how to get involved with one of HomeAid’s 19 affiliates across the country.

In addition to the online awareness efforts, various events and activities are happening at our HomeAid Affiliates across the country, view the following and find an event near you:

11/1                   HALO                                                                                       Houston

10/3-11/8         Share the Warmth                                                                 Colorado

11/7                   Toy Drive                                                                                Northern California

11/9                   Paint-a-Thon                                                                          Phoenix

11/9                   Gala and Auction                                                                  National Capital Region

11/10                6th Annual Step Up Walk to End Homelessness              San Diego

11/12                 Family Promise of Santa Clarita Dedication                     Los Angeles

11/14                Benefit Home                                                                         Orlando

11/22                Annual Fundraising Lunch                                                   Austin

11/25- 12/13  Holiday Meal Drive                                                                 Orange County

HomeAid has partnered with Sackcloth and Ashes for the entire month of November. To help HomeAid and an individual in your local community visit sackclothandashes.com to buy a beautiful blanket for you or a holiday gift. Visit www.homeaid.org to learn the details on how to purchase blankets for HomeAid as well as help out your local community.

To learn more about HomeAid's mission and Homelessness Awareness Month or how to get involved www.homeaid.org.

About HomeAid

Founded in 1989, HomeAid develops, builds, and preserves a variety of housing, including emergency, interim, transitional, permanent supportive, and affordable housing through its 19 affiliates in 13 states. In addition, this includes resource centers that provide support services to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. HomeAid partners with hundreds of nonprofit organizations, nationwide, that provide housing and supportive services that empower residents to move toward self-sufficiency. 

HomeAid has completed 1,333 housing and community engagement projects with a value of more than $352 million. HomeAid has added over 14,531 beds that have served over 917,994 previously homeless individuals. For more information, visit www.homeaid.org.

Source: HomeAid America