Few issues in Oregon are in as greater need of help then homelessness. A report done by Portland State indicates that homelessness has grown 8.5% since 2022. Native Oregonians have all seen the rise of inflation affecting housing, food and insurance costs. It is now harder than ever to afford to live, and we're seeing this firsthand on our streets. Today in this blog, we will dive into the ways we can effectively manage this crisis, and what you can do to help the homeless.
We will start by dissecting different resources available to the public. Some of these resources may be familiar, some may not. The idea here is to get these organizations higher on the public radar. Many know that homelessness is a real problem but may not know what to do to help solve it. The goal here is to come up with a plan, and ideally, a solution.
Non-profits are essential
If we want to effectively support the homeless population, we need to start now. Non-profits such as Housing Oregon are vital to funding affordable housing. Making donations and becoming a member gives you the power to make real change. This is a company that establishes connections with other companies, votes on policies and has a voice in the community.
Organizations like Housing Oregon are a fantastic way to establish change. So, what next? The next organization is fundamental for the homeless to transition out of their previous lives. Transition Projects is a unique and amazing non-profit that puts people into temporary shelters, giving them a good place to sleep while they find a more permanent solution. Supporting a company like this gives people a real chance at life and it also increases their chances of not being homeless again. We don't want to just fight homelessness head on, we also want to make efforts to prevent it further.
What is the next step?
So, we donate to programs to get homeless people back on their feet, now what? Now is when we spread our awareness of programs that transitions people from renting a property, to home ownership. The big picture of helping people is inform the public of programs that fight for the common people. One such company that provides these programs is Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives (PCRI). This company provides programs such as help with home ownership, asset building and financial education.
This could mean a real step in the right direction for thousands of people, and fully transition the homeless to a long and comfortable life. Spreading information about such programs could be a big piece to slowing down homelessness and creating a smooth transition for those looking to find somewhere to live. If we donate to our local non-profits and spread awareness of community programs, we can give many people the chance they desperately need.
Make your voice heard, vote!
Your voice matters, it's time to do your part. Make sure to vote in your local elections and research upcoming measures and policies. Making sure particular measures pass can be the difference the homeless desperately need. Make sure your tax dollars are hard at work doing what you believe is right.
Many naysayers would argue that voting to spend more tax dollars on affordable housing would cut money going to other important places. However, the benefits speak for themselves "The high cost can cut public spending in other areas, however. National studies show that permanent supportive housing can also lead to a drop in hospital stays, time in mental health facilities and arrests for recipients." (Zielinski, OPB).
Let's put this all together
Now that we have all of the necessary information needed to effectively help our communities, it's time to put it into action:
1. Donate to local non-profits
2. Spread information about transition programs to get the homeless on their feet
3. Support companies like PCRI to give the tools of housing and financial education to people
4. Vote in local elections and vote for measures in support of affordable housing
Closing statement
WE have the power to make a meaningful difference in our communities. Do your part by donating, voting and supporting meaningful programs. If we want to make a dent in the homelessness crisis, we have to start now. If we do not, there may be no end in sight. These people rely on us to do the right thing.
Cited works and important resources
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