- Homelessness has increased this year amid worsening affordable housing shortages in certain cities across the US.
- You can help. Here are four ways you can impact the lives of people living on the streets.
Walk the streets of virtually any major city in the US and you are likely to encounter people who are homeless.
Homelessness is on the rise in the US, especially in Los Angeles where severe affordable housing shortages exist. Overall, homelessness increased by .7% this year compared to 2016, NPR reported.
One night earlier this year, more than 550,000 homeless people were recorded across the country, according to a recent report by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
In many cases, homelessness stems from a string of unfortunate events. The lack of support from family or friends oftentimes makes it difficult for those down on their luck to get back on their feet.
But there are actions you can take that could help individuals struggling on the streets. Here are some ways you can make an impact:
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1. Educate yourself and others
The first, and perhaps most important thing you can do, is to educate yourself about the root causes of homelessness and why it is so widespread, and to share that knowledge with others.
You can always start by following Business Insider's coverage of homeless issues.
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development keeps vital statistics on homelessness around the country. The department also issues a comprehensive assessment report every year. This year's report was released earlier this month.
The National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty and the National Alliance to End Homelessness provide helpful webinars, interactive tools, maps, and training materials to help bring you to speed on the most important issues.
2. Donate to a charity
These are 15 organizations that received four out of four stars by Charity Navigator, an independent nonprofit that rates charities based on their financial management and accountability.
Here are links to their websites, listed in alphabetical order:
Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless
The Homeless Families Foundation
Transitions Homeless Recovery Center
Tulsa Day Center for the Homeless
Union Station Homeless Services
3. Volunteer
Sometimes it's best to go out and meet the people you hope to serve. This way, you can make connections and show people that you really care.
During winter, collect gloves, hats, jackets, and other pieces of clothing from friends and family and give them to people sleeping on the streets. Many homeless shelters or organizations accept in-kind donations, as well.
If you're so inclined, knit a scarf or hat. In many northern cities like New York, it can be unbearable to be outside, let alone sleep, in frigid temperatures.
You can also volunteer your time at soup kitchens that provide free food for those in need to work shifts at a local homeless shelter. Many of the charities listed above, like the Coalition for the Homeless, have volunteer opportunities.
All you need to do is browse the website or give them a call to see what you can do in your community. You can also check out Volunteers for America for more ways to get involved.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider