Facts About Homelessness

In ever increasing numbers, they are children. According to The National Alliance to End Homelessness, children are the fastest growing population among people experiencing homelessness, representing more than 43%. The average age of a person who is homeless in the United States is 9 years old. The National Campaign for Jobs and Income found that child poverty remains at a historic high, with nearly one out of every five children in America living in poverty today. At least 2.3 million adults and children, or nearly one percent of the U.S. population, are likely to experience homelessness at least once during the year (The Urban Institute). These are people who live on the street, in shelters, in cars, in campgrounds, in over-crowded or dangerous buildings, or in temporary institutions like prisons and mental hospitals. And today, at least 36% are families with little children—many of them young mothers who are fleeing domestic violence and lack the work skills, access to child care, or access to jobs necessary to support their families (National Alliance to End Homelessness).

These statistics are discouraging, but each day, devoted organizations and dedicated individuals work together for a common goal—to end homelessness. Until our common goal of ending homelessness is reached, there is a critical need for people to add their energy to the work of organizations like Interfaith Hospitality Network at Alpha House. The staff and volunteers at Alpha House provide shelter, meals and support and follow-up services to more than 35 families every year. The family-centered programs at IHN focus on locating affordable housing, developing income strategies, and providing other critical services.

What can you do to End Homelessness?

EDUCATE…yourself, your family, friends, colleagues and community on the causes and solutions to homelessness.

ADVOCATE…for policies and programs that effectively serve people experiencing homelessness. Click here for more information.

ASK…when you donate goods and services. Find out what people and providers could really use. Click here for a list of needed items.

VOLUNTEER…your time and your talents. (Click here for more information about volunteering.)

SHARE…your resources. Consider supporting IHN at Alpha House by sponsoring "One Child, One Night" every month. (Click here for more information about donating to IHN.)