Systemically, America has pushed its average citizens who already didn’t make enough money to
begin with into a state of constant struggle teetering on homelessness. So, if an average citizen is
struggling what can we do for the homeless population? The Housing First model is incredible when
funding reaches the programs that are using it. It is all about the services that come in tandem with
housing first programs. Whether it offers food, basic hygiene needs, behavioral health services, or
case managers it is meant to meet those individuals where they are at presently. The National Alliance
to End Homelessness tells us that when the funding was there, we saw a significant decrease in
homelessness. With the total number of people dropping by 15% between 2007-2016. So, in less than
a decade these programs were able to begin solving a problem. For even more impressive results we
can see the specific subpopulations decrease between 2010 and 2016, with family homelessness
dropping by 23%, veteran homelessness decreasing by 47%, and chronic homelessness by 27%.
With the drop in funding from almost every avenue even after this obviously good outcome these
programs have been severely underfunded and there is a lack of investment into truly affordable
housing. But if you say, well why is the homelessness increasing across America then? I would tell
you that each year since 2021 we have seen an increase equal to or greater of homeless entering the
streets compared to those being housed. Why continue on a path of increased homelessness when we
know a model that works? Do you think we deserve a world where children end up on the streets?
Please click here to find out how to contact your local state representatives (How to contact) and places
where YOU can contribute. (Donate)
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