Homeless Rates in U.S. Held Level Amid Recession, Study Says, but Big Gains Are Elusive

[alp227]

Source: nyt

The federal government has made big strides in reducing the ranks of the chronically homeless and of veterans who are homeless, but it probably will not reach its goal of ending homelessness among those two populations by 2015, according to a government report to be released on Monday.

In an annual report to Congress, the Department of Housing and Urban Development said that the overall level of homelessness remained essentially the same from 2011 to 2012, with the number of homeless individuals falling slightly and the number of homeless families increasing slightly.

“As encouraged as I am that overall homelessness is holding steady during this economic period, we can’t be satisfied,” Shaun Donovan, the housing and urban development secretary, wrote in an e-mail. “Every number in this estimate is a person, a family or a veteran living in our shelters or even on our streets. It’s exactly why we have to redouble our efforts to find real and lasting solutions for those facing homelessness.”

The number of chronically homeless people — a particularly at-risk population often in need of mental and physical health services and other safety-net support — fell about 7 percent in 2011 and more than 19 percent since 2007. Homelessness among veterans declined more than 7 percent in 2011 and 17 percent since 2009.

Read more: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/10/us/homeless-rates-steady-despite-recession-hud-says.html

[bakpakr]

1. As Someone

Who is about to become homeless this rings very hollow to me.

I am engaged with the service system for the homeless. Let me tell you I am not impressed. I am a Vet and have contacted the VA. I keep hearing how they want to help Vets to not be homeless and from what I see they do help, but.

In my situation I do have a job. It is not a great job but it is income. I currently do not make enough to afford to rent an apartment and pay the utilities and feed myself all at the same time. The VA wants me to quit my job and move to a different city. Now don't misunderstand It is a good program and would definitely be great for most. But my situation is different in that I do have a job. I feel that quitting my job that I have had for the last 5 years in this economy is not the best route. So you can see my frustration with the current system. I will do what I need to do even if it does mean quitting my job and moving to the other city. I just think there could be a better solution. Guess what there is. The VA has a program that would offer me a voucher such as the section 8 HUD voucher to help me pay rent. Also part of the program is employment help. with the goal being self sufficiency. But because I am not considered chronically homeless I am not eligible.

Thus I am not impressed. I am frustrated!!

[John2]

2. So

I have a few questions. What city and state do you live in? What job do you do and how much do they pay you? I think this is important for people to get to the bottom of your issues. The fact, that you cannot even make a living wage and still is working, should be an issue in this country. You are a very good example to debunk, everything the Republicans are perpetuating now. They are for those that want to make Americans indentured servants or peasants for profits. You never see them fighting for a living wage in this country. The only thing they fight for is how many Billionaires and millionaires they can create.

[bakpakr]

3. Ok

I live in Carlisle, Pa. I am a CNA ( Certified Nursing Assistant) working in Home Health. I earn $9.50 per hour.