Thursday, April 28, 2011
William And Kate April 29th 2011. Glory to the most high "Jesus".
Congratulations to Kate and William and may they live a life for his glory of the Lord. I guess what truly saddens me is when I hear that hundreds of millions will be made from this wedding. And, I work so hard to open a small pantry and work placement center and can’t get the funds or the help even when I come in the name of the most high. But they come in the name of the Queen and the world gives ear and their money. For the blood line I have in Jesus is more powerful than any Queen or King and shall triumph at the end for I shall not be the tail but the head.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Royal Wedding
Kate and William, I sit here in the States and listening to the news that millions of dollars will be given to you for your wedding pictures, stories and etc. Wow, as I pray God why would millions pay to know what dress Kate shall wear or millions to attend your wedding when so many people could use those dollars to feed, clothed and restore hope too many whom cannot see hope anymore? William your mother stood to help those around her and many say you are a lot like her.
We have worked very hard for three years to raise money for the homeless and to open a pantry and if you and Kate would donate pictures, clothing anything to auction we could open the doors to our pantry. The United States loves the fairy book story of you and Kate and this power was given to you from above please use the power to help us and others to make the world a better place but most of all for the glory of most high whom gave your life and his love.
God bless you richly. http://Hislovestreetministries.com/
We have worked very hard for three years to raise money for the homeless and to open a pantry and if you and Kate would donate pictures, clothing anything to auction we could open the doors to our pantry. The United States loves the fairy book story of you and Kate and this power was given to you from above please use the power to help us and others to make the world a better place but most of all for the glory of most high whom gave your life and his love.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Life without God has nothing.
Friday, April 22, 2011
HIS LOVE STREET HOTEL-Sharing The Love Of Christ.
His Love Street Hotel and Denver Out-reach pantry and work center.
In The Name Of the Almighty “Jesus” I ASK that this Easter that you will donate for the glory of the one whom died so we could have this beautiful life. He came for us the rich and the poor. I ask you to help us make a difference in a life and glorify his mission. I shall not beg for God; for giving for the Lord comes back a hundred-f...old and what a privilege to do his will and his work. The homeless can’t ask you to help them; but don’t we ALL deserve a bed tonight to sleep in? It’s not only his commandment in Proverb’s 28 to help feed the poor; but for the life he allows us to have please return to him. If you don’t believe in this cause PLEASE DELETE US for I come in the name of JESUS, the one whom has sent me. http://Hislovestreetministries.com/
His Love Street Ministries.
His Love Street Ministries, the title says it all "HIS LOVE" thank you for loving and dying for us. His Love Street Ministries would like to say thank you for your support and affords to feed the homeless. And by the power of the almighty God we shall open our pantry and work center soon.
To donate http://Hislovestreetministries.com/
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
The Power Of Words.
The Power Of Words; well many said to show real pictures of those hungry, hurt and dying on the street corners to touch people and ignite the human spirit to help your fellow man. Well, I did just that and not one person was touched or donated to make their lives better. Then today I saw a great video of a man that was blind and homeless and could not see this beautiful world as we do. So here it is, search your hearts today and please donate to help us give hope to the many that are dying and are so mentally lost due to being the streets.
Seriously, on a daily basis meet people who use to be homeless. Think it can’t happen to you? Think again. I get letters from ex-millionaires to school teachers that have lost everything. If only my face book friends would donate we could start making a difference. Ok; Proverbs 28 says “That unless a man helps the poor he shall incur many curses.” Ok let’s say you don’t believe in God, then believe in your fellow man and think where and how you would be if this ever becomes you. http://Lovestreethotel.com/
Monday, April 18, 2011
Before You Become Homeless.
Today, it is foolish for men and women to live with their head in the sand when it comes to their future. All marriages end one of two ways--Either by death or divorce. I have heard the following statement quoted and repeated time and time again, "We are all just one paycheck away from becoming homeless." Yet, most people play Russian Roulette with their futures, refusing to acknowledge that a sudden illness or a loss of a job could create a chain of events that ultimately can lead to homelessness.
For those who are now finding themselves homeless, I am truly saddened. Yet, there were thousands of things that could have done before getting to that point. Utilizing these options could have kept many from becoming homeless. These are the issues that need to be addressed today: What to do before you become homeless.
The first, and most important point is a reality check. Homelessness is happening to middle and upper-middle class white collar workers at an ever increasing rate. Even corporate executives and professional people are being hit hard by this phenomena. The reality check is the most important way to prevent the problem and should be done long before the crisis arises.
I believe it starts with too much house. From my research I have found that most families purchase homes that require two incomes to maintain. That is the first, and most crucial link along the homeless chain of events. Whether because of ego, or through social pressures, or status seeking, or denial, many of us today relate self worth through possessions and image. This faulty way of thinking sets people up for financial trouble, not to mention, produces stress and worry that often breaks up families, rather than bringing them together.
The old criteria used for figuring budgets is, even today, a wise path to follow: Spend no more than 25% of your income on housing. Make sure that it is net income, not gross. Trying to keep up with the Jones never brought happiness to anyone but the Jones. For married, as well as single women and men, it is crucial to plan ahead. What if , is an important question to ask yourself. What if your husband died? What if you got a divorce? What if you or your husband became ill? What if the medical bills ate all your savings? There are many questions that need to be answered. We talk about keeping a nest egg for emergencies, yet me don't take the time to create an emergency plan that can be implemented before a situation becomes a crisis. Waiting until the family is emerged in the crisis is too late. Most of the energy needed to make the critical decisions is being used up in just surviving. So, ask yourself the important questions. Decide what your savings goals are. Decide how long you try to maintain the status quo before you start to really act on your emergency plan. Do you try to maintain your normal living standard or do you put the house up for sell and try to get out from under it before it is taken away? How long can you survive on your savings before you must cut your losses and let your home go? What happens if you just walk out? Check out bankruptcy laws ahead of time. Talk to family members and ask for their input. Check with relatives and ask them for a commitment if such a crisis should hit. Can you stay with Mom, or Grandma, or Aunt Jane? Will your best friend help? What about your grown children, would they be willing to help in an emergency? Learn about all your options before it happens. Trey Noran (help us make a difference for so many that have no hope-http://Hislovestreetministries.com/
For those who are now finding themselves homeless, I am truly saddened. Yet, there were thousands of things that could have done before getting to that point. Utilizing these options could have kept many from becoming homeless. These are the issues that need to be addressed today: What to do before you become homeless.
The first, and most important point is a reality check. Homelessness is happening to middle and upper-middle class white collar workers at an ever increasing rate. Even corporate executives and professional people are being hit hard by this phenomena. The reality check is the most important way to prevent the problem and should be done long before the crisis arises.
I believe it starts with too much house. From my research I have found that most families purchase homes that require two incomes to maintain. That is the first, and most crucial link along the homeless chain of events. Whether because of ego, or through social pressures, or status seeking, or denial, many of us today relate self worth through possessions and image. This faulty way of thinking sets people up for financial trouble, not to mention, produces stress and worry that often breaks up families, rather than bringing them together.
The old criteria used for figuring budgets is, even today, a wise path to follow: Spend no more than 25% of your income on housing. Make sure that it is net income, not gross. Trying to keep up with the Jones never brought happiness to anyone but the Jones. For married, as well as single women and men, it is crucial to plan ahead. What if , is an important question to ask yourself. What if your husband died? What if you got a divorce? What if you or your husband became ill? What if the medical bills ate all your savings? There are many questions that need to be answered. We talk about keeping a nest egg for emergencies, yet me don't take the time to create an emergency plan that can be implemented before a situation becomes a crisis. Waiting until the family is emerged in the crisis is too late. Most of the energy needed to make the critical decisions is being used up in just surviving. So, ask yourself the important questions. Decide what your savings goals are. Decide how long you try to maintain the status quo before you start to really act on your emergency plan. Do you try to maintain your normal living standard or do you put the house up for sell and try to get out from under it before it is taken away? How long can you survive on your savings before you must cut your losses and let your home go? What happens if you just walk out? Check out bankruptcy laws ahead of time. Talk to family members and ask for their input. Check with relatives and ask them for a commitment if such a crisis should hit. Can you stay with Mom, or Grandma, or Aunt Jane? Will your best friend help? What about your grown children, would they be willing to help in an emergency? Learn about all your options before it happens. Trey Noran (help us make a difference for so many that have no hope-http://Hislovestreetministries.com/
Saturday, April 16, 2011
How to Help the Homeless-4 Ways to Help the Homeless.
Matthew 25:35
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in ... (NIV)
In 2010, the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty estimated that 4.3 million people in America (1.53 million of them children), were likely to experience homelessness in a given year. While difficult to measure, the increase in the demand for shelter beds each year is a strong indicator that homelessness is on the rise, and not only in America. According to the United Nations, there are at least 150 million homeless in the world today.
If your heart has been gripped by the needs of the hungry, thirsty, strangers on the streets, here are four effective ways to help the homeless in your community.
1) Volunteer
The most productive way to get started helping the homeless is to join forces with a well-established operation. As a volunteer you will learn from those who are already making a difference, rather than repeating the mistakes of well-meaning but misguided novices. By receiving "on the job" training, our team in Brazil was able to experience the rewards of accomplishment right away.
A good place to start volunteering is at your local church. If your congregation doesn't have a homeless ministry, find a reputable organization in your city and invite church members to join you and your family in serving.
Consider partnering with Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry that invites people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together with needy families.
2) Respect
One of the best ways to help a homeless person is to show them respect. As you look into their eyes, talk to them with genuine interest, and recognize their value as an individual, you will give them a sense of dignity that they rarely experience.
My most memorable times in Brazil were the all night stays on the streets with gangs of children. We did this once a month for a while, offering medical treatments, haircuts, friendship, encouragement and prayer. We didn't have a rigid structure on those nights. We just went out and spent time with the children. We talked to them; we held their street-born babies; we brought them a hot supper. By doing this we gained their trust.
Remarkably, these kids became protective of us, warning us during the day if they detected any dangers on the streets. One day while walking through the city, a boy I had gotten to know stopped me and told me to quit wearing my particular kind of watch on the streets. He showed me how easily a thief could snatch it from my arm, and then he suggested a better, more secure type of watchband to wear.
While it's wise to exercise caution and take measures to ensure your personal safety when ministering to the homeless, by identifying with the real person behind the face on the streets, your ministry will be much more effective and rewarding. Learn additional ways to help the homeless:
3) Give
Giving is another great way to help, however, unless the Lord directs you, don't give money directly to the homeless. Cash gifts are often used to buy drugs and alcohol. Instead, make your donations to a well-known, reputable organization in your community. Many shelters and soup kitchens also welcome contributions of food, clothing and other supplies.
4) Pray
Lastly, prayer is one of the easiest and most positive ways you can help the homeless.
Because of the harshness of their lives, many homeless people are crushed in spirit. But Psalm 34:17-18 says, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (NIV) God can use your prayers to bring deliverance and healing to broken lives.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in ... (NIV)
In 2010, the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty estimated that 4.3 million people in America (1.53 million of them children), were likely to experience homelessness in a given year. While difficult to measure, the increase in the demand for shelter beds each year is a strong indicator that homelessness is on the rise, and not only in America. According to the United Nations, there are at least 150 million homeless in the world today.
If your heart has been gripped by the needs of the hungry, thirsty, strangers on the streets, here are four effective ways to help the homeless in your community.
1) Volunteer
The most productive way to get started helping the homeless is to join forces with a well-established operation. As a volunteer you will learn from those who are already making a difference, rather than repeating the mistakes of well-meaning but misguided novices. By receiving "on the job" training, our team in Brazil was able to experience the rewards of accomplishment right away.
A good place to start volunteering is at your local church. If your congregation doesn't have a homeless ministry, find a reputable organization in your city and invite church members to join you and your family in serving.
Consider partnering with Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry that invites people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together with needy families.
2) Respect
One of the best ways to help a homeless person is to show them respect. As you look into their eyes, talk to them with genuine interest, and recognize their value as an individual, you will give them a sense of dignity that they rarely experience.
My most memorable times in Brazil were the all night stays on the streets with gangs of children. We did this once a month for a while, offering medical treatments, haircuts, friendship, encouragement and prayer. We didn't have a rigid structure on those nights. We just went out and spent time with the children. We talked to them; we held their street-born babies; we brought them a hot supper. By doing this we gained their trust.
Remarkably, these kids became protective of us, warning us during the day if they detected any dangers on the streets. One day while walking through the city, a boy I had gotten to know stopped me and told me to quit wearing my particular kind of watch on the streets. He showed me how easily a thief could snatch it from my arm, and then he suggested a better, more secure type of watchband to wear.
While it's wise to exercise caution and take measures to ensure your personal safety when ministering to the homeless, by identifying with the real person behind the face on the streets, your ministry will be much more effective and rewarding. Learn additional ways to help the homeless:
3) Give
Giving is another great way to help, however, unless the Lord directs you, don't give money directly to the homeless. Cash gifts are often used to buy drugs and alcohol. Instead, make your donations to a well-known, reputable organization in your community. Many shelters and soup kitchens also welcome contributions of food, clothing and other supplies.
4) Pray
Lastly, prayer is one of the easiest and most positive ways you can help the homeless.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
State of Homelessness in America 2011.
The State of Homelessness in America report consists of four major sections. Chapter 1 chronicles annual changes in overall homelessness and homelessness among families and other subpopulations. Chapter 2 demonstrates how economic risk factors, including unemployment, have increased during the recent economic recession. Chapter 3 identifies some specific populations, including doubled-up people and youth aging out of foster care, that are at increased risk of homelessness and documents trends in the sizes of those populations. Chapter 4 identifies a series of states, including California, Florida, and Nevada, that face multiple risk factors for worsening homelessness. Key findings for each of those sections are presented here.
Key findings of the report on homelessness:
The nation’s homeless population increased by approximately 25,000 people from 2008 to 2009 (5 percent increase). There were also increased numbers of people experiencing homelessness in each of the subpopulations examined in this report: families, individuals, chronic, unsheltered.
A majority – 34 of 50 states and the District of Columbia - had increases in their homeless counts. The largest increase was in Louisiana, where the homeless population doubled.
Among subpopulations, the largest percentage increase was in the number of family households, which increased by over 3,300 households (6 percent increase). Also, the number of persons in families increased by more than 6,000 people (3 percent increase). In Mississippi, the number of people in homeless families increased by 260 percent.
After population reductions from 2005 to 2008, the number of chronically homeless people in the country remained stagnant from 2008 to 2009, despite an 11 percent increase in the number of permanent supportive housing units.
While most people experiencing homelessness are sheltered, nearly 5 in 10 were living on the street, in a car, or in another place not intended for human habitation. In Wisconsin, twice as many people experienced homelessness without shelter in 2009 as did in 2008.
It is widely agreed upon that there is a vast undercount of the number of young people experiencing homelessness. Underscoring this is the fact that 35 percent of all communities reported that there were no homeless youth in their communities in 2009.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Why do homeless people stay homeless?
As it has been stated, some people make the conscious decision to remain homeless. A nomadic life without burdens appeals to them.
However, most homeless people do NOT want to remain homeless. It's the insensitive stereotypes that have been formed about them that perpetuates their sense of worthlessness.
In today's economy, someone who works hard and is a decent person might end up on the streets. Sometimes there are factors in your life that are out of your control.
We don't know the personal stories about these people. Each of them have their own history and background which creates their character. Just because we see them on the streets, we assume they brought it upon themselves due to some "tragic characteristic" they've adopted.
Most homeless people have been homeless for quite some time. Changing their way of life is hard, as society practically shuns them. What they need is an Opportunity, not charity. Some don't have much education and are unable to help themselves. That is why outreach groups have been formed to combat this. Homelessness helps no one, most want a shelter over their heads and warm clothes with a warm meal. Many obstacles face a homeless people who attempt to start a new life. Most jobs nowadays require an address, contact information, references. How will a homeless person find these credentials? Most are relegated to advertisement jobs http://www.bumvertising.com/ that exploit their homelessness for commercial gain.
How they can start is finding a homeless shelter or some place to stay. Once their basic necessities are secure, they can educate themselves which leads to their elevation in society. There's loads of information out there, free of charge and legal, if you know where to look. School is the most popular option though, as you receive a diploma which improves your credentials.
However, most homeless people do NOT want to remain homeless. It's the insensitive stereotypes that have been formed about them that perpetuates their sense of worthlessness.
In today's economy, someone who works hard and is a decent person might end up on the streets. Sometimes there are factors in your life that are out of your control.
We don't know the personal stories about these people. Each of them have their own history and background which creates their character. Just because we see them on the streets, we assume they brought it upon themselves due to some "tragic characteristic" they've adopted.
Most homeless people have been homeless for quite some time. Changing their way of life is hard, as society practically shuns them. What they need is an Opportunity, not charity. Some don't have much education and are unable to help themselves. That is why outreach groups have been formed to combat this. Homelessness helps no one, most want a shelter over their heads and warm clothes with a warm meal. Many obstacles face a homeless people who attempt to start a new life. Most jobs nowadays require an address, contact information, references. How will a homeless person find these credentials? Most are relegated to advertisement jobs http://www.bumvertising.com/ that exploit their homelessness for commercial gain.
How they can start is finding a homeless shelter or some place to stay. Once their basic necessities are secure, they can educate themselves which leads to their elevation in society. There's loads of information out there, free of charge and legal, if you know where to look. School is the most popular option though, as you receive a diploma which improves your credentials.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Feed the poor and get the blessings from God.
I am a Reverend for the streets and seeking a building to convert to a pantry and clothing store. If, you know anyone who can donate a building in the downtown Denver Area please get back with me. I am praying that someone will help as the word says in Proverbs 28: 27 Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses. What better gurantee could a person get in life to be blessed by God.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
What to do if You Become Homeless.
Homelessness is a lamentable state of affairs which, given the current housing crisis, is touching more and more Americans every day. Unfortunately, given the historic stigma placed upon being homeless, many people that are on the verge of being homeless—or already are—don't explore the various avenues of assistance open to them.This only aggravates an individual's, as well as the overall, situation. With federal, state, and local initiatives to assist those who find themselves without adequate, normal shelter, being homeless doesn't have to be as tough—or as insurmountable—as it might first appear. Keep the following ideas and organizations in mind if you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of being homeless.
Discover All Available Safety Nets
The most important step in alleviating the pain and discomfort that accompany being homeless, is finding out exactly where the closest, most convenient homeless shelters are. There are a ton of organizations, of social, governmental, and religious orientation that can help you get off the streets and into a decent shelter. Take a look at the following list of sites, which will provide the most comprehensive ways to search for a safety net within your vicinity:
•The US Department of Housing and Urban Development's homeless person's resource page, at HUD.Gov/Homeless.
•The site of the National Coalition for the Homeless, (go to the “Resources” link at the right);
•The Homelessness Resource Center's site.
•The website of Shelter Listings, a user-provided compilation of shelters.
•The Salvation Army's website, (under the “Programs That Help” tab, choose “Adult Rehabilitation”);
•The Shelters & Soup Kitchens Directory, which includes a state-specific search map if you scroll down a bit.
Swallow Your Pride
If you happen to have the bad luck to have lost your home—foreclosures are at an all time high, and are becoming a more significant cause of homelessness throughout the nation—you'll have to stand in long lines, answer uncomfortable or possibly humiliating questions (people's opinions vary here, but if you've come down from pretty high on the socioeconomic ladder, you might feel somewhat humiliated), and possibly even face the disapproving glares of passers-by.
Do not be disheartened by these realities, and learn to overcome your pride whenever it stands in the way of improving your situation. After all, many people that opine about homelessness in general have never experienced it, and therefore have no idea what it is really like to be homeless. There is nothing sadder than someone who languishes in misery, not because they have no alternative, but because they are too proud to seek out and accept help from others.
Prepare for the Worst
Sometimes, help doesn't come as quickly as would ideally be the case, and people out on the streets with nowhere to go should prepare themselves for whatever situation may present itself, especially poor meteorological conditions. There is nothing worse than being homeless during the winter months, and having a notion of how to protect yourself from the elements will be key to your survival. Consider the following steps:
•Dress with as many layers as possible. Put the thinnest layers, like an undershirt, closest to your skin, and keep the thickest layers, like a winter coat, on the very outside.
•This applies to pants and socks as well. Tuck in as many of the layers as possible into your pants, except for your outer coat.
•Cover your head with a thick hat; somewhere around 80% of the body's heat is lost through the top of the head, so cover it!
•Stay dry at all costs, as getting wet—especially with so many layers—can leach the warmth right out of your body.
•Seek shelter, whether under natural formations in the landscape, or under a bridge, stairwell, etc. Heat vents are never hard to find, and can make a huge difference for spending a night on the street. Trespassing laws play against homeless people, so beware of where you choose to go, and keep a constant eye out for security guards or police. Unfortunately, in several states it is illegal to be homeless.
Discover All Available Safety Nets
The most important step in alleviating the pain and discomfort that accompany being homeless, is finding out exactly where the closest, most convenient homeless shelters are. There are a ton of organizations, of social, governmental, and religious orientation that can help you get off the streets and into a decent shelter. Take a look at the following list of sites, which will provide the most comprehensive ways to search for a safety net within your vicinity:
•The US Department of Housing and Urban Development's homeless person's resource page, at HUD.Gov/Homeless.
•The site of the National Coalition for the Homeless, (go to the “Resources” link at the right);
•The Homelessness Resource Center's site.
•The website of Shelter Listings, a user-provided compilation of shelters.
•The Salvation Army's website, (under the “Programs That Help” tab, choose “Adult Rehabilitation”);
•The Shelters & Soup Kitchens Directory, which includes a state-specific search map if you scroll down a bit.
Swallow Your Pride
If you happen to have the bad luck to have lost your home—foreclosures are at an all time high, and are becoming a more significant cause of homelessness throughout the nation—you'll have to stand in long lines, answer uncomfortable or possibly humiliating questions (people's opinions vary here, but if you've come down from pretty high on the socioeconomic ladder, you might feel somewhat humiliated), and possibly even face the disapproving glares of passers-by.
Do not be disheartened by these realities, and learn to overcome your pride whenever it stands in the way of improving your situation. After all, many people that opine about homelessness in general have never experienced it, and therefore have no idea what it is really like to be homeless. There is nothing sadder than someone who languishes in misery, not because they have no alternative, but because they are too proud to seek out and accept help from others.
Prepare for the Worst
Sometimes, help doesn't come as quickly as would ideally be the case, and people out on the streets with nowhere to go should prepare themselves for whatever situation may present itself, especially poor meteorological conditions. There is nothing worse than being homeless during the winter months, and having a notion of how to protect yourself from the elements will be key to your survival. Consider the following steps:
•Dress with as many layers as possible. Put the thinnest layers, like an undershirt, closest to your skin, and keep the thickest layers, like a winter coat, on the very outside.
•This applies to pants and socks as well. Tuck in as many of the layers as possible into your pants, except for your outer coat.
•Cover your head with a thick hat; somewhere around 80% of the body's heat is lost through the top of the head, so cover it!
•Stay dry at all costs, as getting wet—especially with so many layers—can leach the warmth right out of your body.
•Seek shelter, whether under natural formations in the landscape, or under a bridge, stairwell, etc. Heat vents are never hard to find, and can make a huge difference for spending a night on the street. Trespassing laws play against homeless people, so beware of where you choose to go, and keep a constant eye out for security guards or police. Unfortunately, in several states it is illegal to be homeless.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Hunger and homelessness remain in the USA
Hunger and homelessness remain most pressing issues for US cities
A report by the US Conference of Mayors
1 March 2011: Hunger and homelessness are among the most pressing issues faced by US cities. During 2010 the number of people experiencing homelessness increased across major cities by an average of two per cent, while request for emergency food assistance rose by 24 per cent. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said: “Even working families are increasingly facing hunger and homelessness as a result of the crippled economy and rising unemployment.”
For more than a quarter century, The US Conference of Mayors has documented the magnitude of the issues of hunger and homelessness in American cities as well as efforts cities are making to address these challenges. The 2010 report ‘Hunger and Homelessness in US Cities’ which covers the period September 2009 to August 2010, shows the impact of rising unemployment and housing costs as well as low wages on America’s most vulnerable sections of urban society.
Asheville (NC) Mayor Terry Bellamy said while there was currently an historic effort to restore America‘s economy, the effects of hunger and homelessness were clearly evident in America‘s cities and urban centers.
Main findings
Hunger
Homelessness
MAIN FINDINGS
Hunger
• Every city surveyed reported that requests for emergency food assistance increased over the past year, and those requests increased by an average of 24 per cent across the cities.
• Among those requesting emergency food assistance, 56 per cent were persons in families, 30 per cent were employed, 19 per cent were elderly, and 17 per cent were homeless.
• Unemployment led the list of causes of hunger cited by the survey cities, followed by high housing costs, low wages, poverty, and lack of access to SNAP/food stamps.
• Cities reported a 17 per cent average increase in the number of pounds of food distributed during the last year. All but one of the cities saw an increase in the number of pounds of food distributed; in that one city, it remained the same. Nearly three in four (74 per cent) of the cities reported that their total budget for emergency food purchases increased over the last year; four cities said it decreased; two said it remained the same. Across the responding cities, the average increase in the budget for emergency food purchases was 18.5 per cent.
• Increasing SNAP benefits and providing more providing more affordable housing led the city official’s list of action actions needed to reduce hunger. These were followed by employment training programs and utility assistance programs.
• All but one of the cities expect requests for emergency food assistance to increase over the next year, with that increase expected to be moderate in 69 per cent of the survey cities and substantial in 27 per cent. One city expects requests to remain at the same level.
• Fifty-six per cent of the cities expect resources to provide emergency food assistance will decrease moderately over the next year; eight per cent expect them to decrease substantially; 32 per cent expect them to continue at about the same level. One city expects a moderate increase in these resources.
• Increasing demand and decreasing resources, particularly relating to federal and state budget problems, were cited most frequently by the cities as the biggest challenge to addressing hunger in their areas in the coming year.
Homelessness
• Over the past year, the number of persons experiencing homelessness increased across the survey cities by an average of two per cent, with 52 per cent of the cities reporting an increase, 36 per cent reporting a decrease, and three cities saying it stayed the same.
• Among families, the number experiencing homelessness increased across the survey cities by an average of nine per cent, with 58 per cent reporting an increase, 21 per cent reporting a decrease, and 21 per cent saying it stayed the same.
• Among unaccompanied individuals, the number experiencing homelessness over the past year increased across the survey cities by an average of 2.5 per cent, with 44 per cent reporting an increase, 39 per cent reporting a decrease, and 17 per cent saying it stayed the same.
• Among households with children, unemployment led the list of causes for homelessness cited by city officials. It was followed by lack of affordable housing, poverty, low-paying jobs, and domestic violence. Lack of affordable housing led the list of causes of homelessness among unaccompanied individuals, followed by mental illness and the lack of needed services, substance abuse and the lack of needed services, and poverty.
• Cities reported that, on average, 24 per cent of homeless adults are severely mentally ill, 20 per cent are physically disabled, 19 per cent are employed, 14 per cent are victims of domestic violence, 14 per cent are also veterans, and three per cent are HIV Positive.
• Across the survey cities, an average of 27 per cent of homeless persons needing assistance over the last year did not receive it. Because no beds are available for them, emergency shelters in 64 per cent of the survey cities must turn away families with children experiencing homelessness; shelters in 68 per cent of the cities must turn away unaccompanied individuals.
• More than seven in 10 (71 per cent) of the survey cities have adopted policies and/or implemented programs aimed at preventing homelessness among households that have lost, or may lose, their homes to foreclosure.
• Providing more mainstream assisted housing led the list of actions needed to reduce homelessness in the survey cities. This was followed by providing more permanent supportive housing for people with disabilities, and having more or better-paying employment opportunities.
• Officials in 72 per cent of the survey cities expect the number of homeless families to increase over the next year; those in 28 per cent expect it to continue at about the same level; one city expects a moderate decrease. Officials in 77 per cent of the cities expect the number of homeless unaccompanied individuals to increase over the next year; those in 19 per cent expect it to continue at about the same level; one city expects a moderate decrease.
• Officials in 48 per cent of the survey cities expect resources to provide emergency shelter to decrease over the next year; those in another 48 per cent expect resources to continue at about the same level; one city expects a moderate increase.
HUNGER
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that, in 2009, 14.7 per cent of American households were food insecure, meaning that at some point they lacked sufficient food for an active, healthy life for all household members. This represents the highest level of food insecurity since the government began tracking the issue in 1995. In 2009, 50.2 million people lived in food- insecure households, including 17.2 million children. Within this group were 12.2 million adults and 5.4 million children who lived in households with very low food security.1
Every city surveyed reported that the number of requests for emergency food assistance increased over the past year. Across the cities, the number of requests for food assistance increased by an average of 24 per cent. Nearly one-third (32 per cent) of the cities surveyed reported that demand for assistance increased by 30 per cent or more. The rate of increase ranged from 62 per cent in Philadelphia and 60 per cent in Des Moines to nine per cent in Boston, eight per cent in Phoenix and Dallas, and two per cent in Portland.
Among those requesting emergency food assistance, 56 per cent were persons in families, 30 per cent were employed, 19 per cent were elderly, and 17 per cent were homeless. (These categories are not mutually exclusive and the same person can be included in more than one.)
Nine in 10 of the cities reported an increase in the number of persons requesting food assistance for the first time. Among these, 68 per cent characterized the increase in first-time requests as substantial; 32 per cent characterized it as moderate.
Increased requests for food assistance were accompanied by more frequent visits to food pantries and emergency kitchens. Nine in 10 of the 20 cities able to respond to the question reported an increase in the frequency that persons visit food pantries and/or emergency kitchens each month. Among these, 55 per cent characterized the increase in frequency as moderate; 45 per cent said it was substantial.
When asked to identify the three main causes of hunger in their cities, most survey cities (88.5 per cent) named unemployment; this was followed by high housing costs (by one-half of the cities), low wages and poverty (each cited by 46 per cent), lack of access to SNAP (by 27 per cent of the cities), and medical or health costs (by 15 per cent).
Based on current projections of economic conditions and unemployment for their cities, officials in all but one of the cities expect requests for emergency food assistance to increase over the next year. Some 69 per cent of the survey cities expect that increase to be moderate; 27 per cent expect it to be substantial. One city expects requests to remain at the same level.
Based on the current state of public and private agency budgets, 56 per cent (14) of the cities expect resources to provide emergency food assistance will decrease moderately over the next year, and eight per cent (two cities) expect them to decrease substantially. Nearly one-third of the cities (eight) expect these resources to continue at about the same level. Cleveland expects a moderate increase in resources.
The cities were asked to identify what they expect will be the biggest challenge to addressing hunger in their area in the coming year. Most frequently cited were increasing demand and decreasing resources, particularly relating to federal and state budget problems.
HOMELESSNESS
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Homeless Assessment Report found that, for the second straight year, the number of sheltered homeless families (a household that includes an adult 18 years of age or older and at least one child) increased, while the number of sheltered homeless individuals dropped. In 2009, approximately 1,035,000 individuals used sheltered or transitional housing at some time during the year, as did 535,000 people who were there as part of a family. Slightly more than 170,000 families were sheltered homeless in 2009 - about a 30 per cent increase since 2007.
Over the past year, the total number of persons experiencing homelessness increased in 52 per cent (13) of the 27 cities surveyed by the Conference of Mayors, decreased in 36 per cent (nine) of the cities; and stayed the same in three of the cities (Asheville, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis). Across these cities, there was an overall increase of two per cent in the total number of persons experiencing homelessness. The change ranged from a 26 per cent decrease in Des Moines and a 12 per cent decrease in Kansas City, to an 11 per cent increase in Providence, 14 per cent increase in Charlotte, 15 per cent increase in Nashville, and 26 per cent increase in Charleston.
The survey cities reported that, over the past year, the number of homeless families increased in 58 per cent (14) of the cities, decreased in 21 per cent (five) of the cities, and stayed the same in 21 per cent of the cities. Across the cities, there was an overall increase of nine per cent in the total number of families experiencing homelessness. The change ranged from an 81 per cent increase in Charleston, 36 per cent increase in Charlotte, and 31 per cent increase in Portland, to a one per cent decline in Boston, two per cent decline in Louisville and Norfolk, six per cent decline in Phoenix, and 38 per cent decline in Gastonia.
When asked to identify the three main causes of homelessness among their households with children, 76 per cent (19) of the cities cited unemployment, 72 per cent (18) cited lack of affordable housing, 56 per cent (14) cited poverty, 24 per cent (six) cited domestic violence, and one-fifth (five) cited low- paying jobs.
The survey cities reported that, over the past year, the number of unaccompanied homeless individuals increased in 44 per cent (10) of the responding cities, decreased in 39 per cent (nine) of the cities, and stayed the same in 17 per cent (four) of the cities. Across the cities, there was an overall increase of 2.5 per cent in the total number of unaccompanied individuals experiencing homelessness. The change ranged from a 46 per cent increase in Minneapolis, a 25 per cent increase in Charleston, and a 20 per cent increase in Providence, to a 17 per cent decrease in Cleveland, an 18 per cent decrease in Gastonia, a 20 per cent decrease in Des Moines, and a 31 per cent decrease in Sacramento.
When asked to identify the three main causes of homelessness among unaccompanied individuals, 31 per cent of the cities (eight) cited the lack of affordable housing, 19 per cent (five) cited mental illness and the lack of needed services, another 19 per cent cited substance abuse and the lack of needed services, and 15 per cent (four) cited poverty.
1 March 2011: Hunger and homelessness are among the most pressing issues faced by US cities. During 2010 the number of people experiencing homelessness increased across major cities by an average of two per cent, while request for emergency food assistance rose by 24 per cent. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said: “Even working families are increasingly facing hunger and homelessness as a result of the crippled economy and rising unemployment.”
For more than a quarter century, The US Conference of Mayors has documented the magnitude of the issues of hunger and homelessness in American cities as well as efforts cities are making to address these challenges. The 2010 report ‘Hunger and Homelessness in US Cities’ which covers the period September 2009 to August 2010, shows the impact of rising unemployment and housing costs as well as low wages on America’s most vulnerable sections of urban society.
Asheville (NC) Mayor Terry Bellamy said while there was currently an historic effort to restore America‘s economy, the effects of hunger and homelessness were clearly evident in America‘s cities and urban centers.
Main findings
Hunger
Homelessness
MAIN FINDINGS
Hunger
• Every city surveyed reported that requests for emergency food assistance increased over the past year, and those requests increased by an average of 24 per cent across the cities.
• Among those requesting emergency food assistance, 56 per cent were persons in families, 30 per cent were employed, 19 per cent were elderly, and 17 per cent were homeless.
• Unemployment led the list of causes of hunger cited by the survey cities, followed by high housing costs, low wages, poverty, and lack of access to SNAP/food stamps.
• Cities reported a 17 per cent average increase in the number of pounds of food distributed during the last year. All but one of the cities saw an increase in the number of pounds of food distributed; in that one city, it remained the same. Nearly three in four (74 per cent) of the cities reported that their total budget for emergency food purchases increased over the last year; four cities said it decreased; two said it remained the same. Across the responding cities, the average increase in the budget for emergency food purchases was 18.5 per cent.
• Increasing SNAP benefits and providing more providing more affordable housing led the city official’s list of action actions needed to reduce hunger. These were followed by employment training programs and utility assistance programs.
• All but one of the cities expect requests for emergency food assistance to increase over the next year, with that increase expected to be moderate in 69 per cent of the survey cities and substantial in 27 per cent. One city expects requests to remain at the same level.
• Fifty-six per cent of the cities expect resources to provide emergency food assistance will decrease moderately over the next year; eight per cent expect them to decrease substantially; 32 per cent expect them to continue at about the same level. One city expects a moderate increase in these resources.
• Increasing demand and decreasing resources, particularly relating to federal and state budget problems, were cited most frequently by the cities as the biggest challenge to addressing hunger in their areas in the coming year.
Homelessness
• Over the past year, the number of persons experiencing homelessness increased across the survey cities by an average of two per cent, with 52 per cent of the cities reporting an increase, 36 per cent reporting a decrease, and three cities saying it stayed the same.
• Among families, the number experiencing homelessness increased across the survey cities by an average of nine per cent, with 58 per cent reporting an increase, 21 per cent reporting a decrease, and 21 per cent saying it stayed the same.
• Among unaccompanied individuals, the number experiencing homelessness over the past year increased across the survey cities by an average of 2.5 per cent, with 44 per cent reporting an increase, 39 per cent reporting a decrease, and 17 per cent saying it stayed the same.
• Among households with children, unemployment led the list of causes for homelessness cited by city officials. It was followed by lack of affordable housing, poverty, low-paying jobs, and domestic violence. Lack of affordable housing led the list of causes of homelessness among unaccompanied individuals, followed by mental illness and the lack of needed services, substance abuse and the lack of needed services, and poverty.
• Cities reported that, on average, 24 per cent of homeless adults are severely mentally ill, 20 per cent are physically disabled, 19 per cent are employed, 14 per cent are victims of domestic violence, 14 per cent are also veterans, and three per cent are HIV Positive.
• Across the survey cities, an average of 27 per cent of homeless persons needing assistance over the last year did not receive it. Because no beds are available for them, emergency shelters in 64 per cent of the survey cities must turn away families with children experiencing homelessness; shelters in 68 per cent of the cities must turn away unaccompanied individuals.
• More than seven in 10 (71 per cent) of the survey cities have adopted policies and/or implemented programs aimed at preventing homelessness among households that have lost, or may lose, their homes to foreclosure.
• Providing more mainstream assisted housing led the list of actions needed to reduce homelessness in the survey cities. This was followed by providing more permanent supportive housing for people with disabilities, and having more or better-paying employment opportunities.
• Officials in 72 per cent of the survey cities expect the number of homeless families to increase over the next year; those in 28 per cent expect it to continue at about the same level; one city expects a moderate decrease. Officials in 77 per cent of the cities expect the number of homeless unaccompanied individuals to increase over the next year; those in 19 per cent expect it to continue at about the same level; one city expects a moderate decrease.
• Officials in 48 per cent of the survey cities expect resources to provide emergency shelter to decrease over the next year; those in another 48 per cent expect resources to continue at about the same level; one city expects a moderate increase.
HUNGER
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that, in 2009, 14.7 per cent of American households were food insecure, meaning that at some point they lacked sufficient food for an active, healthy life for all household members. This represents the highest level of food insecurity since the government began tracking the issue in 1995. In 2009, 50.2 million people lived in food- insecure households, including 17.2 million children. Within this group were 12.2 million adults and 5.4 million children who lived in households with very low food security.1
Every city surveyed reported that the number of requests for emergency food assistance increased over the past year. Across the cities, the number of requests for food assistance increased by an average of 24 per cent. Nearly one-third (32 per cent) of the cities surveyed reported that demand for assistance increased by 30 per cent or more. The rate of increase ranged from 62 per cent in Philadelphia and 60 per cent in Des Moines to nine per cent in Boston, eight per cent in Phoenix and Dallas, and two per cent in Portland.
Among those requesting emergency food assistance, 56 per cent were persons in families, 30 per cent were employed, 19 per cent were elderly, and 17 per cent were homeless. (These categories are not mutually exclusive and the same person can be included in more than one.)
Nine in 10 of the cities reported an increase in the number of persons requesting food assistance for the first time. Among these, 68 per cent characterized the increase in first-time requests as substantial; 32 per cent characterized it as moderate.
Increased requests for food assistance were accompanied by more frequent visits to food pantries and emergency kitchens. Nine in 10 of the 20 cities able to respond to the question reported an increase in the frequency that persons visit food pantries and/or emergency kitchens each month. Among these, 55 per cent characterized the increase in frequency as moderate; 45 per cent said it was substantial.
When asked to identify the three main causes of hunger in their cities, most survey cities (88.5 per cent) named unemployment; this was followed by high housing costs (by one-half of the cities), low wages and poverty (each cited by 46 per cent), lack of access to SNAP (by 27 per cent of the cities), and medical or health costs (by 15 per cent).
Based on current projections of economic conditions and unemployment for their cities, officials in all but one of the cities expect requests for emergency food assistance to increase over the next year. Some 69 per cent of the survey cities expect that increase to be moderate; 27 per cent expect it to be substantial. One city expects requests to remain at the same level.
Based on the current state of public and private agency budgets, 56 per cent (14) of the cities expect resources to provide emergency food assistance will decrease moderately over the next year, and eight per cent (two cities) expect them to decrease substantially. Nearly one-third of the cities (eight) expect these resources to continue at about the same level. Cleveland expects a moderate increase in resources.
The cities were asked to identify what they expect will be the biggest challenge to addressing hunger in their area in the coming year. Most frequently cited were increasing demand and decreasing resources, particularly relating to federal and state budget problems.
HOMELESSNESS
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Homeless Assessment Report found that, for the second straight year, the number of sheltered homeless families (a household that includes an adult 18 years of age or older and at least one child) increased, while the number of sheltered homeless individuals dropped. In 2009, approximately 1,035,000 individuals used sheltered or transitional housing at some time during the year, as did 535,000 people who were there as part of a family. Slightly more than 170,000 families were sheltered homeless in 2009 - about a 30 per cent increase since 2007.
Over the past year, the total number of persons experiencing homelessness increased in 52 per cent (13) of the 27 cities surveyed by the Conference of Mayors, decreased in 36 per cent (nine) of the cities; and stayed the same in three of the cities (Asheville, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis). Across these cities, there was an overall increase of two per cent in the total number of persons experiencing homelessness. The change ranged from a 26 per cent decrease in Des Moines and a 12 per cent decrease in Kansas City, to an 11 per cent increase in Providence, 14 per cent increase in Charlotte, 15 per cent increase in Nashville, and 26 per cent increase in Charleston.
The survey cities reported that, over the past year, the number of homeless families increased in 58 per cent (14) of the cities, decreased in 21 per cent (five) of the cities, and stayed the same in 21 per cent of the cities. Across the cities, there was an overall increase of nine per cent in the total number of families experiencing homelessness. The change ranged from an 81 per cent increase in Charleston, 36 per cent increase in Charlotte, and 31 per cent increase in Portland, to a one per cent decline in Boston, two per cent decline in Louisville and Norfolk, six per cent decline in Phoenix, and 38 per cent decline in Gastonia.
When asked to identify the three main causes of homelessness among their households with children, 76 per cent (19) of the cities cited unemployment, 72 per cent (18) cited lack of affordable housing, 56 per cent (14) cited poverty, 24 per cent (six) cited domestic violence, and one-fifth (five) cited low- paying jobs.
The survey cities reported that, over the past year, the number of unaccompanied homeless individuals increased in 44 per cent (10) of the responding cities, decreased in 39 per cent (nine) of the cities, and stayed the same in 17 per cent (four) of the cities. Across the cities, there was an overall increase of 2.5 per cent in the total number of unaccompanied individuals experiencing homelessness. The change ranged from a 46 per cent increase in Minneapolis, a 25 per cent increase in Charleston, and a 20 per cent increase in Providence, to a 17 per cent decrease in Cleveland, an 18 per cent decrease in Gastonia, a 20 per cent decrease in Des Moines, and a 31 per cent decrease in Sacramento.
When asked to identify the three main causes of homelessness among unaccompanied individuals, 31 per cent of the cities (eight) cited the lack of affordable housing, 19 per cent (five) cited mental illness and the lack of needed services, another 19 per cent cited substance abuse and the lack of needed services, and 15 per cent (four) cited poverty.
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